Cosmetic surgery is now an option for all women, thanks to financing programs, improved results and faster outpatient service. But these procedures - whether it be a face lift, a breast augmentation or a tummy tuck - may not always turn out as planned, and many still are considered risky.

The most popular form of cosmetic surgery in America is liposuction, the suctioning out of isolated fat deposits, which resist diet and exercise. Studies show the number of liposuction operations increased 215 percent between 1992 and 1997. Liposuction can cost anywhere from $2,650 to $9,100, depending on where the fat is removed. Patients may experience swelling and bruising for one to six months. And, the surgery can cause blood clots, numbness, baggy skin and scarring.

A facelift, removing excess fat and tightening muscles in the face and neck area, costs between $5,600 and $12,100. Patients are usually back to work in two weeks, about the same amount of time for swelling to subside. The risks include injury to the nerves that control facial muscles, excessive scarring and change in the hairline. The procedure lasts five to 10 years.

Breast enlargement means implanting breasts with sacs filled with saline solution or experimental fillers such as safflower oil. The operation costs between $4,500 and $8,500 and is generally an outpatient procedure. Implants can cause infection, hardening or rupture of the implant and altered sensitivity. The implants must be removed or replaced after a period of years.

Other procedures include vein removal, collagen injections, hair transplants and rhinoplasty.