Choosing the right plastic surgeon to perform your surgery is a life-altering decision.
You’ve seen the stories on the news. There are people out there that have fake qualifications or lie about their skills to get your money. You could end up with results you don’t like or with severe medical conditions.
It’s vital that you ask the right questions to find a board-certified plastic surgeon you can trust.
Always book consultations with prospective surgeons. You can decide if they’re right for you based on their answers to the following ten questions.
1. Are You a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon?
The first thing you need to find out is if they’re board certified.
If they have the right certification, they’ll have many hours in the operation room. They’ll also have plenty of medical experience under their belt. They will have completed their education and gotten specialized accreditation.
You can search their name on the American Board of Plastic Surgery’s website to see if they’re certified.
2. Are You Experienced in the Surgery I Want?
There are hundreds of different cosmetic procedures. And, there are hundreds of doctors that specialize in each type of surgery.
It’s to your benefit to choose a doctor with experience in the surgery you want. Especially if this is your first time getting plastic surgery.
Yes, all surgeons have basic surgery knowledge. But, they don’t all know the best strategies and practices to use in each unique procedure. A rhinoplasty surgeon won’t know as much about male breast augmentation as a gynecomastia surgeon will.
3. Can I See Past Patient Pictures?
There’s nothing wrong with asking for proof of your surgeon’s skills.
If they have an excellent track record, they’ll likely be happy to show you before and after pictures of past clients. Assess the pictures and decide if you would have been happy with the results.
You should also see if they have reviews online from past clients. Online forums can save you from getting surgery you’ll regret.
4. How Much Will It Cost?
This question is one you need to ask each surgeon you interview.
Surgery costs vary based on location, methods, and procedure. As well as the caliber of doctor and post-op appointments. A facelift in Los Angeles is likely more expensive than one in Portland.
Also, be aware that you get what you pay for. This is not a situation where you want to find the best deal; you want to pay for the best level of service.
5. What Are the Risks?
Every surgery comes with risks, especially if they use anesthesia.
Here are some of the most common plastic surgery health risks you should inquire about:
- Hematoma
- Nerve damage
- Infection
- Scarring
- Blood Loss
Ask how likely each risk is to happen. You need to decide for yourself if this procedure is worth the risk level your surgeon tells you.
Aside from medical risks, you also risk the chance of not liking the results. Always ask what the surgeon’s policies are for dissatisfied clients.
6. What If I Don’t Like the Results?
Before surgery, you need to get on the same page as your surgeon on possible outcomes.
While they can’t reduce costs for anesthesia or the facility, they may have policies on reducing the charge if you’re dissatisfied. Choose a surgeon who is open to discussing this.
When you ask for pictures of past clients’ before and after, ask if they were satisfied. If you question the results in any of the pictures, there’s a chance that the client did as well.
7. What Will Recovery Be Like?
Recovery is different for each surgery and each patient. Some people naturally heal faster than others.
You’ll want to ask the surgeon how long you’ll be on bed rest after the surgery. And, what the post-op recovery steps you’ll need to take. For example, you may need to change your bandages or apply medication.
Inquire about any post-op appointments you’ll need. Surgeons at Wright Plastic Surgery continually meet with their clients post-op. This is to ensure they’re healing well and feeling good about the surgery.
8. Do You Have Any Concerns About Me Getting This Surgery?
An honest doctor will express any concerns they have about you having this surgery.
If you’ve had past health concerns or bad surgery experiences, they need to know. Be completely honest when you tell them about your medical history. And, ensure they know about any prescription medications you take.
9. What Kind/What Method of Anaesthesia?
There are many different types of anesthesia. Surgeons (or their anesthesiologist) will recommend the best option for your type of surgery.
But, you should still inquire on what type they choose and how they’ll administer it.
Ask if you’ll be unconscious or partially conscious during the procedure. And, inquire about who administers it. They need to be a board-certified anesthesiologist who stays present for the entire surgery.
10. Who Will Be Assisting You on My Surgery?
Busy surgeons will have a whole team assisting in your surgery. It’s comforting to know that everyone in the room is focusing on ensuring you have a successful operation.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to have a consultation with each of those employees. You can’t inquire about their experiences or accreditations.
During your consultation with your surgeon, ask about every person that’s involved. Does their practice only hire board-certified medical professionals? How much experience do they require from their staff?
The last thing you want is an inexperienced, unknowledgeable person in charge of the scalpel.
Interested in Learning More?
Choosing a plastic surgeon for your cosmetic surgery is a big deal. If you hire someone who isn’t a board-certified plastic surgeon, you may end up with medical issues and poor results.
Don’t hesitate to ask all the essential questions listed above. Your health is your number one priority. Every reputable surgeon will understand how important these questions are to you and their practice.
For more information on plastic surgery, health, and looking your best, consider reading this article about cosmetic surgery safety checklist.
