20 Sep 6 Vital Questions To Ask Your Plastic Surgeon Before Treatment
How Do I Choose A Plastic Surgeon?
Getting plastic surgery is a big decision. Choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial both for peace of mind and for an optimal outcome. When finding a plastic surgeon, don’t be afraid to ask these 6 vital questions.
1. How long have you been practicing?
Plastic surgery is a highly complex field. Excellent plastic surgeons have years of training and experience. Before scheduling surgery, don’t be afraid to ask how long the surgeon has been practicing. Make sure the surgeon stays up-to-date on the latest techniques and has the experience to offer excellent results.
2. How long have you been performing this procedure?
In addition to simply being certified as a plastic surgeon, patients should find someone who has expertise in the specific procedure the patient is interested in. Some surgeons have specialization in certain procedures. Or a surgeon may have 3-5 most popular procedures. Choose a surgeon who specializes in the specific desired procedure.
3. How many procedures have you performed?
Even if a surgeon has been in practice for decades, that doesn’t mean the surgeon has experience in a specific type of procedure. For example, if a patient is interested in a breast augmentation but the surgeon has only performed a handful of breast augmentations, that may not be a good fit. Look for someone who has performed a high volume of the type of operation desired.
4. How many procedures do you perform in an average year?
For excellent results, consistency is key. Just like with any other task, surgeons should remain in practice with specific procedures. Ask how many times the surgeon performs a specific procedure per year. A good rule of thumb is that doing a procedure at least once a week keeps the surgeon in top practice.
5. Will I have to stay overnight after surgery?
Some surgeries require an overnight stay in the hospital. More and more, however, surgeons can use minimally invasive techniques. Typically, minimally invasive surgeries do not require an overnight hospital stay. Know how to prepare for surgery by asking specifically about the technique and whether or not an overnight stay will be required.
6. How long is recovery?
Having any surgery can significantly alter plans for the following weeks. Make sure to get a clear answer about estimated recovery timelines and expectations. A skilled surgeon should have a ballpark recovery time to help patients plan ahead.
Finding an excellent surgeon
Finding the right surgeon can have a significant impact on patient experience and outcomes. Don’t be afraid to shop around for the right plastic surgeon. Being confident and comfortable with the surgeon is one of the most important steps to a successful surgery.