Never underestimate the power of a consultation before committing to something as life-changing as plastic surgery. After all, a plastic surgery consultation is your first step toward achieving your aesthetic goals and the best version of you.
This is not only your chance to meet your surgeon and discuss your concerns, it’s the most authentic way to ensure you feel confident about moving forward. Preparing effectively for this appointment can make all the difference and we’re going to tell you exactly how to do that.
In our experience, the following questions will get you all the information you need and want before scheduling your appointment.
Pro-tip: Print this out and use it as a checklist and then again as a scratchpad for when you’re face to face with your plastic surgeon.
Which brings us to our first question…
1. Is the Surgeon Board-Certified?
This is non-negotiable. Before you even consider booking a consultation, you must confirm your surgeon’s credentials. All that involves is a simple question: “Are you board-certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)?” Why does this matter? Certification ensures your surgeon has undergone rigorous training and adheres to the highest safety and ethical standards. Safety is the name of the game. First and foremost.
2. What Are My Procedure Options?
The emphasis here is on “my.” Focus on your specific goals, needs, and lifestyle. Every patient is unique, and so, too, their treatment plans. Discuss your goals and ask precise questions like, “What procedures or techniques would you recommend for my desired outcome?”
This not only helps tailor the surgery to your needs while exploring all available options, it also gives your surgeon the opportunity to tell you if your goals are unrealistic or somehow misaligned to your overall health and wellness.
3. What Are the Risks and Benefits?
There is really no getting around the fact that all surgeries carry some level of risk and you need to be clear as to what they are. So, just ask simple, yet specific questions, such as: “What are the potential risks and complications of this procedure?” Understanding both the benefits and possible drawbacks helps establish realistic expectations, which empowers you to make an informed decision.
4. Can I See Before-and-After Photos?
Many of us are visual people by nature, which is why it’s always a great idea to request a portfolio or gallery of previous patients’ results, ideally for cases similar to yours. This visual insight can give you an idea of what to expect while also evidencing your surgeon’s expertise.
5. What Does Recovery Involve?
Yes, you’re focused on the results. In order to arrive at those results, you need to understand that recovery is a crucial part of the process. In order to envision how that will play out in real time for you, ask questions like, “What is the typical recovery timeline, and what should I avoid during this time?” Think about your daily commitments in order to envision what accommodations or help you might need while you’re recuperating. Knowing how much downtime to expect and what post-operative care entails helps you plan accordingly.
6. What Costs Should I Expect?
Discuss the full breakdown of costs, including the procedure, anesthesia, fees, and post-operative care. Ask, “Are there financing options available if needed?” Transparency about costs eliminates surprises later. No one needs the added stress of financial strain while pursuing or recovering from the procedure they really want or need.
Final Tip: Bring a List and Take Notes
It seems like simple advice, but we really recommend that anyone considering a cosmetic or restorative procedure prepare a list of questions ahead of time and take notes during the consultation. Doing so means you will leave the appointment feeling informed and confident about your next steps. If not, you’re in the wrong place. Ready to book your consultation? Contact our office today!
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