If you’re planning plastic surgery, choosing the right surgeon is critical. A good decision can make all the difference in a smooth, safe experience as well as great surgical results.
If you’re not an expert, how can you recognize one? All it takes is a bit of research and knowing the right questions to ask at your consultations:
QUESTION: What board certification do you hold?
WHY YOU CARE: Believe it or not, a doctor does not have to be certified in plastic surgery to get out the knife. Some dermatologists, gynecologists and others decide to add cosmetic surgery procedures to their repertoire. Choose a surgeon who’s certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery — a group that requires extensive training in the field — or perhaps a surgeon certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery if you’re seeking facial surgery.
QUESTION: How many of these procedures have you performed?
WHY YOU CARE: Obviously you don’t want to be one of your surgeon’s first patients. But even a seasoned surgeon may not have much experience in the procedure you need, especially if you’re seeking surgery that’s less common like breast reconstruction.
QUESTION: Will you describe all my options including the pros and cons?
WHY YOU CARE: You want to be sure your surgeon offers a variety of options, and that they'll be able to tailor the procedure you’re considering to your unique needs. You don’t want cookie cutter surgery.
QUESTION: Will you help me understand what you recommend and why?
WHY YOU CARE: This question can assist you in finding out if the doctor has truly listened to your goals and wants to please you while minimizing risks.
QUESTION: Can you show me relevant before and after photos?
WHY YOU CARE: Nothing can tell you more about a surgeon’s skills than results. Enough said?
QUESTION: Could I speak with a couple of your prior patients?
WHY YOU CARE: It’s comforting to have your impressions of a surgeon confirmed by someone who has gone before you. It’s also helpful to talk with another woman about the recovery process.
QUESTION: Where do you operate? May I see the facility?
WHY YOU CARE: Many plastic surgeons have an on-site surgical facility. Inspect it with a critical eye. Is it clean and modern? Is safety equipment on hand? If the operating suite is certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF), this is extra assurance that the facility meets high standards.
QUESTION: Do you have privileges at an accredited hospital close by?
WHY YOU CARE: In the event of an emergency, you want to be sure you can be quickly transported to a reputable hospital and your surgeon can help care for you there.
QUESTION: What can I expect recovery to be like?
WHY YOU CARE: The answer your surgeon gives should ring true. You want your doctor to be honest about pain, swelling and bruising, and to tell you they have measures and recommendations to help you through it.
QUESTION: What is your revision policy?
WHY YOU CARE: No matter how skilled your surgeon, a small percentage of patients will not be happy with their results. Even though many revisions are minor procedures (to address scarring, for example), you don’t want any surprises.
Along with this list of questions, you’ll have others of your own. If you have the patience for one more bit of input — write them down! Any plastic surgeon worth your consideration will be happy to meet an informed, prepared patient.