Cosmetic surgery isn’t a step most people take lightly. When meeting with a surgeon for the first time, this individual must know what to say and do. This allows them to go into the surgery with realistic expectations and an understanding of what is to come. The following tips are of great help when meeting with a surgeon for the first time.
Come with Questions
When it is time to meet with a cosmetic surgeon, be prepared with a list of questions. Many people believe they will remember the questions and don’t write them down. However, it is best to have a list. Furthermore, ask any questions that come up during the consultation. The more one knows, the easier it is to choose a surgeon.
Learn About the Procedure
The doctor should go over the procedure and what a patient should expect. Although the patient may have an overview of the surgery, the doctor can provide specifics based on the medical history and initial exam. Patients find this to be helpful, as they won’t have any surprises on the day of the surgery.
Have Specific Goals in Place
The doctor must know exactly what the patient would like to achieve with their help. This makes it easier for them to choose the right procedure to achieve these goals. Vague goals aren’t of much help because the doctor may interpret them differently than the patient.
Discuss Risks
Every surgical procedure comes with risks. Talk with the doctor to learn what the risks are with the anticipated procedure. They should share this information willingly and explain why they may or may not be a concern for the person to be treated.
Set Aside Time for this Meeting
A person cannot choose a cosmetic surgeon after a five-minute visit. Set aside enough time to discuss the procedure, the risks, the patient’s medical history, payment, and more. If the doctor rushes the consultation, find someone else to do the work. While waiting times have increased, the length of a patient’s visit shouldn’t be shortened to move things along.
Evaluate the Office
A cosmetic surgeon’s office should be clean and open. The aroma should be pleasant, and patients should have room to sit without being crowded. The cleanliness of the office needs to be as important as the surgeon’s skills. Nobody wants to come out of a procedure ill because basic hygiene practices weren’t followed. The condition of the office gives an indication of how important hygiene is to staff members.
Learn About the Recovery Process
Patients need to know what to expect during the recovery process. For example, the surgeon should share information about when they can exercise again or what they can and cannot do until they heal. However, patients need to share information about their lifestyles and anything that may impede the healing process. The doctor can then make recommendations on what the person can and cannot do safely.
Surgeon Qualifications
A cosmetic surgeon should be willing to share their qualifications with a patient. In addition, a reputable surgeon will show proof of these qualifications. If they state they are a member of an association, ask to see a membership card. Never take something they say at value. Although Ronald Reagan has been credited with the saying, “Trust, but verify”, this phrase actually appears to be an old Russian proverb. People need to take the advice to heart. A person should trust their surgeon because they have verified his or her credentials.
A person should always choose a surgeon they feel comfortable with. That needs to be the top priority. When this person is found, the patient feels better about the procedure. Keep this in mind when meeting with a surgeon for the first time. If the gut says no, it is best to walk away.
