Deciding to change your physical appearance is just the first step in undergoing a cosmetic medical procedure. Consumers should research the procedure, investigate the qualifications of potential surgeons and the facilities where they operate, and explore recovery times, costs, and possible financing options.

At each stage of the process, obtaining credible and trustworthy information is key to a safe and successful outcome. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) have recently introduced two new ways for consumers to obtain information regarding every aspect of cosmetic medical procedures: PSnet and Ask-a-Surgeon.

Launched in March 2010, PSnet is an ASPS interactive Web portal where consumers can explore:

• A discussion forum in which former and prospective patients interact with each other and with ASPS Member Surgeons.
• A before and after photo gallery
• Links to essential information about plastic surgery
• A video blog section where patients share their own stories, in their own words

Currently, PSnet focuses on topics surrounding breast reconstruction and features a number of engaging and active threads such as "Thoughts on the Breast Reconstruction Process" and "Surgeons with Strong Experience and Excellent Outcomes." Additional procedures, resources, and functions will be added soon.

Ask-a-Surgeon is a new question-and-answer education service that allows consumers to query ASAPS members on virtually any topic related to cosmetic procedures, from plastic surgery and non-invasive procedures to beauty-related topics. The service also offers an easily searchable archive of the most common questions, as well as videos on a variety of topics. Some recent questions answered include, "What are the pros/cons of breast reduction liposuction vs. surgery?" and "Would Botox injections for crow's feet interfere with a facelift?"

The Beauty for Life team wants to make sure consumers have the safest cosmetic surgery experience possible. While both PSnet and Ask-a-Surgeon offer consumers great ways to interact with plastic surgeons, neither tool should be considered a substitute for a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to address your individual medical needs. To locate a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area, please click here.