If your child will be undergoing plastic surgery, you're likely experiencing a flurry of emotions. Unlike with other types of surgery, you may feel conflicted because you don't want to submit your child to unnecessary physical pain now but know that doing so may result in less mental and emotional pain later on. However, your child may not have the ability to think as rationally as you do, and you may need some reassurance about the process. Use this information to learn two tips that can help you prepare your child for plastic surgery.

Be Honest but Hopeful

The first thing you want to do is be extremely honest with your child, but keep the tone hopeful. Let them know what the outcome is going to be so that they'll have something to look forward to.

For example, your child may have a cleft palate that the pediatric plastic surgeon is going to fix. There will undoubtedly be some pain, and your child's eating habits may also have to change for some time while the scars heal. If you don't prepare your child for this, they may be utterly beside themselves when they wake up from surgery to find that they are having to rearrange their former way of life because of a surgery that you authorized.

Don't subject your child to a rude awakening: let them know what to expect. Show them diagrams of the healing process, and make sure that they're aware of some of the foods they'll have to give up for a time. While you're being honest, also pump them with enthusiasm by showing pictures of other children who have had the same type of plastic surgery that your child is undergoing. Show pictures of children who have had successful procedures and are now full of smiles and play.

Explain the Procedure

Going to the hospital may be frightening for some children. Numerous adults, some wearing masks, will be poking and prodding your child, and this could make them uneasy.  

You can counteract this by explaining the hospital procedure to them. Explain to them that they'll be greeted by doctors and nurses and that their own face will be covered with a mask that will lull them to sleep.  Be sure to let them know that you'll be close by so they don't have to worry about going through the surgery alone.

Preparing your child for plastic surgery is a great way to ensure a successful outcome. When your child is undergoing plastic surgery, keep these tips in mind so they can be ready for the experience. Talk to a healthcare organization such as Shriners Hospitals for Children – Cincinnati for more information.