We all strive to find meaningful gifts for our loved ones each year during the holiday season. Have you ever thought about gifting an aesthetic treatment or plastic surgery procedure? At my Houston practice, this is becoming more common. Of course, this isn’t the traditional cashmere sweater or scented candle, but it’s a gift that can truly better someone’s life.
Nowadays, cosmetic procedures are commonplace, and any stigma around them has all but disappeared. It’s not just celebrities in Hollywood who get a little nip and tuck or BOTOX injections. Men and women living in middle America are getting both surgical and nonsurgical treatments in record numbers. Because of this rise in popularity, many people are finding that cosmetic enhancement can be an acceptable (and appreciated) gift option.
What if the recipient is offended?
There is a fine line between thoughtful and offensive in this situation. Preventing hurt feelings is key when gifting cosmetic procedures. A good way to do this is by discussing the topic of cosmetic treatments with the potential recipient. If he or she seems uncomfortable with the idea, then gifting them a cosmetic treatment probably wouldn’t be a good idea. However, if he or she seems interested and expresses the desire for a treatment, then you should follow up with them. This will help you make a well-informed decision about whether or not this could be the right gift.
Will the recovery take away from the holiday season?
If you plan ahead in your gift-giving, your recipient should have plenty of time to schedule their procedure so as not to interfere with the holidays. They can also wait and schedule their procedure or treatment sometime in the New Year. Many treatments such as BOTOX, dermal fillers, and Thermi® treatments require no downtime, so a person doesn’t have to miss out on shopping, family time, or holiday events.
Who should perform the procedures?
Do your research. Don’t gift a friend or family member a procedure with a surgeon that you wouldn’t trust for yourself. Make sure he or she is a board-certified plastic surgeon for all surgical procedures, or at least a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, or aesthetician for nonsurgical or medical spa treatments. Also, it may be a good idea to involve the recipient in this decision. Make sure they are comfortable with the provider before booking any appointments or purchasing gift certificates.
Though this gift may be unconventional, it can be a very personal and heartfelt expression of caring. Helping a loved one look and feel their best is a gift that will surely be appreciated.
I am getting a little lift for Christmas!
Hope its the best Christmas yet!