With Valentine's day just around the corner, some men may be thinking of giving their significant other a plastic surgery procedure as a gift. While the idea of less frown lines, fuller lips, larger breasts, or a tighter waistline may be on a man's wish list, make sure it is something the woman really wants, lest it be misinterpreted as self-serving....sort of like that DVD player or home theatre system. If the idea seems to fit, here are some important issues to consider.

Most importantly, whomever pays the bill, nobody should undergo plastic surgery because someone else wants them to or because it is a gift. This is the type of gift you should give only if you are certain she really wants it. The desire to have the procedure should be entirely self-motivated and she should have talked about it in the past or in the recent present. The happiest plastic surgery patients are those who are doing it for themselves, to improve their self-image, and not just for you.

It is important to remember that plastic surgery is not a retail item, like buying a watch or perfume. It is a serious undertaking and all procedures, no matter even if done in the office, carry risks and the potential for complications. Make sure you acquire this gift from a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. Take the initiative in properly selecting qualified plastic surgeons, don't just go to someone because someone else says so or that they bought the 'gift' there so you have to send it there, Research a doctor's education and training, board-certification, and his/her documented experience in cosmetic surgery and procedures. Plastic surgery is a gift that she can't give back if you don't like it!Even purchasing something like a consultation for a few hundred dollars would be a good safe start or a gift card for Botox or injectable fillers. Any plastic surgeon's office can help guide you in what to do.

Plastic Surgery, with the exception of office-based Botox and injectable fillers, takes planning. Make sure that you time your 'gift' appropriately. A self-motivated, well-informed patient who plans their procedure around work and family is the most likely to be happy and satisfied with their plastic surgery decision.

If any of these areas are a concern...consider a generous spa card instead...every woman alive likes pampering...and you'll be a certain winner!