FAQs About Plastic Surgery for Your Doc

When you go for an initial consultation regarding plastic surgery, you should come prepared with a list of your own queries as well as a pad of paper and pencil. Many people think they will remember what to ask, but this is not always the case. A medical appointment can be intimidating and nerve wracking. Make a list ahead of time.

Here are some examples of the more frequently asked questions of cosmetic surgeons:

- Do you have examples of your work viewable via “before and after” photos? Seeing is believing and being able to actually see snapshots of this doctor’s handiwork will give you actual visual feedback about whether this surgeon is the right one for you. Be sure to look at pictures of the procedures you are interested in and of individuals in your same age group, in your weight range and with a similar complexion to you. Looking at “before and after” photos of past plastic surgery operations will allow a prospective patient to understand this doctor’s artistic ability.

- How many rhinoplasty/tummy tucks/breast augmentations have you performed? Whatever the procedure that you’re planning to have is, you want to know how many this professional has performed. Experience is important. You will not want to be only the second nose job in a doctor’s career. You also will not necessarily want to have liposuction performed by a facial rejuvenation specialist if this has been a neglected area of specialty for the doctor over the years.

- Can you tell me all the details of the procedure, such as how long it will take and the methods used? It is also important to understand ahead of time what type of anesthesia will be used, how many nights (if any) will be spent in the hospital, and what scars or side effects should be expected. Often times a doctor will be able to give verbal information as well as brochures to take home. Brochures are very helpful to review while you’re back home digesting the information you’ve received.

- How much does this procedure cost? While many individuals feel awkward discussing money, it is important to do so up front. Medical insurance does not pay for elective procedures so the price tag is pertinent information. The fees vary between offices and are even dependent on the region of the country where the practice is located. Getting this information up front will allow a person to save up, figure out a plan for tapping savings or explore financing options.

- What is the recovery process like? It is important to understand what to expect in terms of recovery post-op. How long will it take and how will you feel? Will you need to have a friend or relative in attendance in order to take care of you and if so, for how long? It’s important to know all of this in advance in order to begin to schedule vacation time from work and to recruit friends and family who may be able to help you recuperate.

Getting questions answered in advance is a wise thing to do. Bring pad and paper to your initial consultation to become better informed about your plastic surgery.