Research the risks and benefits of all the cosmetic surgery equipment your doctor plans to use before committing to the surgery. With modern equipment like lasers, endoscopes, and computers, cosmetic surgery is a lot less invasive than it used to be -- but it still takes time to heal.

Cosmetic surgery doesn't always provide exactly what you're looking for, so be prepared for some letdown after the surgery is completed. Adding this to standard post-op depression can leave you a long way down in the dumps. A good surgeon will be prepared for this, and will guide you through it.

If you're thinking about getting a face-lift, be sure you know the basics before you commit. Most people don't realize, for example, that this form of cosmetic surgery is performed under local anesthesia, which means you'll be awake (if somewhat drowsy) for the full 2-4 hours.