Opting for plastic surgery is a major decision and can have far reaching consequences, physically and mentally. So it's imperative to know which questions to ask to get as informed as possible about what to expect from the surgery. Here are a few of the most important issues you need to discuss with your plastic surgeon.
Qualifications
The plastic surgeon's credentials are of paramount importance, so you need to ask if he is board-certified. You can verify this by checking with the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Additionally, you should inquire if the office is an accredited surgical facility. This should reassure you that the office has the necessary equipment and medical facilities for the procedure. You can also check this yourself with the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Inc., or AAAHC.
Expectations
Ask if you can view "before and after" photographs of patients who have undergone similar procedures. Speak honestly with the surgeon about the results you're hoping for, and ask if the photographs depict typical results. Be sure also to inquire about the number of such surgeries that the surgeon has performed. If the procedure in question is one that the surgeon specializes in, you'll feel more confident in her abilities.
Complications
Ask the surgeon how frequently he encounters complications from the procedure you're interested in, and how they will be treated should they occur after your surgery. This is also a good time to ask if he has hospital privileges, in the event that hospitalization is required as a result of these complications. It should be comforting to know that a hospital's facilities are available in the event of an emergency situation. A hospital will also be able to give you further information about the doctor's credentials.
Recovery
Ask about the expected recovery time that you can expect so you can make the necessary arrangements with your employer about time off. Find out also about potential side effects, how much bruising and swelling to expect, and what kind of pain medication will be prescribed to you. If you're physically active, ask when you should be able to resume your activities.
Cost
Ask for detailed information about costs of the procedure. In particular, you need to be aware of any extra fees for lab work, medications and any post-operative check-up office visits. Also, ask about their payment methods, so you know how much you can expect to pay before the procedure, and also to determine how soon the balance is expected to be paid afterward.
Tip
It pays to actually write down a list of questions and take it with you to the consultation, rather than trying to remember them.
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