Once you’ve decided to get a specific cosmetic surgery, finding a plastic surgeon to do it can feel like interviewing a job candidate or going on a first date. Except, most people you date won’t be cutting into your body and altering part of it forever (unless they’re Dexter Morgan).
Don’t get hustled into paying too much, or trusting someone who isn’t qualified and just wants to prey on your insecurities. Before and during your consultations, come prepared with hard-hitting questions.
Learn how to choose a plastic surgeon with confidence by asking the right questions, starting with these five:
1. How Many Times Have You Done This Procedure and Can I Talk to Previous Patients?
The obvious first question is “are you Board Certified?” But besides the obvious, the next thing you need to ask is how much experience they have with this specific procedure.
Is this a popular procedure for them, like the mommy makeover by Dr. Michele Shermak? Is this what they’re known for? Ask whether they’re willing to let you get in touch with past clients who are willing to tell you about their experience with the same procedure.
2. Can I See Before and After Photos?
Before and after’s should include images of immediately after surgery, as well as the healed results. These will help you emotionally prepare for what your body will look like the day you come home post-operation.
3. How Many Pre-Op Appointments Will Be Needed?
You should always schedule more than one consultation with at least two plastic surgeons, just to be sure you know what you’re getting into. Besides consultations, some surgeries require many tests before the operation. Make sure you have a good timeline of how long the entire process will take from the moment you book the procedure to the end of recovery.
4. Where Will This Procedure Be Performed?
Some procedures have to be done at a hospital, or an outpatient surgery center. Other procedures are so routine they can be done in the same private practice office where you have your consultation. If you’re getting surgery, make sure your doctor has hospital privileges in case of an emergency.
5. What Are the Risks of This Procedure?
This question should include asking what the protocol is if there are major complications during surgery. While the answers to this question may not be pleasant, it’s important you understand what could happen in a worst-case scenario—as well as how likely that scenario is.
6. How Many Post-Op Appointments Will I Need?
Depending on the surgery you’re looking to get, there could be blood work or other tests to do post-surgery. Make sure you know how long recovery will take, including all the extra follow-up appointments. Also, ask if you need to come in person to all of them, or if you can do follow-up appointments virtually.
More Tips on How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon
When it comes to learning how to choose a plastic surgeon, there are a few things to remember:
Consult more than one doctor you might want to perform your surgery. Ask if you can contact their previous patients, ask for before and after photos, and ask where the surgery will take place. Finally, ask about risks and how long the whole process will take from booking to fully recovering.
For more great articles about health and medical treatments like this one, keep reading our blog.
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