Plastic Surgery Consultation
Meeting with your potential plastic surgeon
Before the initial consultation, have a few questions in mind. Think about the concerns you may have, and what details you want the surgeon to expound on. Of course, in order for you to know exactly what questions you feel are important you need to have completed a little self-research on your chosen procedure. This shows your doctor that this isn’t a spare of the moment decision; rather, you are a well informed patient who is rationale and sound in thinking.
Don’t be afraid to ask about the potential surgeon’s credentials, even asking to see their certificates. It is always good to take a gander at the before and after photos and ask for contact numbers for patients who can attest to their quality of work. If a doctor is hesitant to give up this information it is probably a good idea to move on to other plastic surgeon candidates.
The first plastic surgery consultation should center on what procedure you want done. You will then most likely talk about your expectations concerning the plastic surgery. Your potential surgeon will convey to you if your expectations are feasible or not, and should explain in detail the reason why he or she feels this way.
To make sure that you are a good candidate for the type of procedure you are requesting, your surgeon will gather information about your medical background. Then your surgeon will most likely ask you what has driven your desire to complete a plastic surgery procedure. Your surgeon will check for signs of mental and emotional instability and will evaluate if you show signs of a mental disorder, such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). You can expect to undergo a physical examination where photos will be taken of the area where the procedure is to be performed. Some surgeons have photograph-imaging technology that can create a photographic image that illustrates what your results may look like after the surgery. This can give you visual details about the procedure.
A discussion about the actual procedure should also take place. Your potential surgeon should give in-depth details about the medial practices that will take place before, during and after your surgery. This can transition into a discussion about all the monetary cost involved, and you may be directed to another staff member to talk about fees and payment. Who ever you speak with, don’t forget to ask about ALL the cost involved, including hidden costs and additional charges. You no doubt know that plastic surgery is a costly affair, but be sure you know all the financial obligations involved before committing. One financial question you can keep in mind is if you are eligible for a plastic surgery loan, or if your medial insurance will cover all or some of the costs of the procedure.
During the consultation process, you should form a trusting relationship with your surgeon. You should leave the consultation feeling knowledgeable about the process of the procedure before, during and after. If you have any further questions feel free to schedule a second consultation; your surgeon should be more than willing to answer all of your questions and concerns. The primary goal of your consultation is to dispel uncertainty and anxiety.
If by any chance your consultation with a particular surgeon does not go well, feel free to seek out other recommendations to find a surgeon more suitable for you. This is your choice, and you must feel at ease with it.