Making the Most of Your Plastic Surgery Consultation

By Steven J. Rottman, MD

In order to receive the maximum benefit from you plastic surgery consultation, it is very important to think through what questions you have and what information you need in order to make an informed decision. My patients have found it very helpful to have a written list to help organize their thoughts and questions. This helps in assuring that all questions are addressed.

A key point for your consultation is to make sure your visit will include meaningful time with the Surgeon, not just with the staff.

Here are some guidelines for the more important questions and considerations to address during your consultation:

• Any successful relationship depends on good communication and this is no different in the rapport between you and your surgeon. Patient results are enhanced when you and your surgeon candidly discuss goals, agree on realistic expectations, and jointly plan the course of the surgical experience.
• You should ask about the surgeon’s experience with the particular procedure you are considering, including any relatively new procedures or technology. Ask if any published safety and effectiveness studies have been published in medical journals
• Include a discussion of risks as well as benefits of the surgery in your consultation. A thorough consultation also involves a review of your medical history. All these factors help the surgeon to customize the operation to best meet your needs.
• Good surgical care continues after the actual surgery. Ask about follow-up visits and about the surgical revision policy, in the event revision is necessary.
• Ask about the doctor’s hospital privileges. Although some surgical procedures can safely be performed in the doctor’s office or an ambulatory surgical facility, ask if the doctor has operating privileges in an accredited hospital for the same procedure you would like to have performed. This is important because prior to a hospital granting operating privileges, the surgeon’s training and competency for specific procedures is evaluated.
• Be sure to discuss the expected recovery for the procedure, including postoperative restrictions on activity and typical time periods for resuming work and social activities.
• Inquire about the total costs for the procedure. Cosmetic surgery usually is not covered by insurance, and advance payment is typically required. Costs include the surgeon’s fee and fees for the surgical facility and anesthesia. Other costs may include the pre-op physical and labwork, medications, surgical garments, and private-duty nursing.
• Keep in mind though that the training and experience of your surgeon are the most important factors in the success of your surgery.

Please feel free to call 410-321-6868 or contact me to set up your complimentary appointment.