We made it through another year! Go ahead, pat yourself on the back because likely as not, you’ve had your fill of down times this year and still … you came through like a trouper. And, if you’re like us, you’re thinking about creating one or more resolutions to help make your life better in the new year. Studies show that half of all adults do make New Year resolutions, but less than 10% actually are able to keep them past a couple of months. Most of the time, it’s because the resolution is unrealistic or based on “false hope,” which is underestimating the time, effort and consequences of changing a certain behavior.Again, even if you made resolutions last year that you weren’t able to keep, don’t beat yourself up about it. Because you’re human. Lapses are part of the process. Bad habits are just that—habits. Habits can change and they don’t have to change just because it’s the start of a new year, but they can change. You probably didn’t acquire a bad habit overnight, so you probably won’t get rid of it any quicker.Setting goals to changeWhy make a New Year’s resolution then? Guess what? Those who make goals for the new year are 10 times more likely to achieve those goals than those who leave it up to chance without setting a goal.No matter what your goal is, it’s important to approach your new year’s resolutions with some common sense, which can help to decrease any anxiety you might have. Don’t think that you have to re-create yourself in one fell swoop. You can always create a series of smaller accomplishments throughout the year to achieve your ultimate goal (and don’t feel like you have to limit yourself to the calendar year, either). Reward yourself (as long as it doesn’t make you relapse) along the way for achieving steps toward your bigger goal.The American Psychological Association suggests accepting help from those who care about you and will listen to you, which will give you strength, and If you feel overwhelmed or that you won’t be able to meet your goals, consider getting some professional help to discuss strategy on changing your behavior or addressing emotional issues.While the ultimate goal of a New Year’s resolution is to enact behaviors that improve your life in the long run, cosmetic surgery may be an option to help improve your outlook. Looking our best can help psychologically and make our work and social lives better, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Are you ready for cosmetic surgery?A lot depends upon what kind of procedure you’re considering, from getting a quick refreshing to permanent alterations. It’s important to consider how cosmetic surgery can affect you on the inside, according to the Mayo Clinic. Before you make an appointment to see Dr. Mykel Lo at About Faces Cosmetic Surgery, you should think about:

• Having realistic expectations about what the procedure can do for you
• Understanding the medical risks, healing process, how the surgery will affect you personally and professionally and what lifestyle changes will be required before, during and after the procedure
• Preparing questions for Dr. Lo about your goals regarding the non-surgical or surgical procedure
• Quitting, hopefully permanently, or at least abstaining from smoking or using nicotine products (including chewing tobacco and nicotine products) for four to six weeks before and after surgery
• Stabilizing your weight for six months to a year before the planned procedure.

The good news is that studies have shown that those who have chosen plastic surgery report enjoying life more with improved self-esteem. Dr. Lo and the staff at About Faces Cosmetic Surgery are happy to discuss various procedures and which may be right for you. Contact us today to discuss your options and … Happy New Year!