You have set your aesthetic goals, and you’ve chosen your preferred cosmetic surgeon. But undergoing plastic surgery doesn’t end here – you need to do your homework.
When you’ve decided to undergo plastic surgery, it’s best to be always prepared for the procedure. You should remember that a detailed and well-discussed consultation is a key to successful plastic surgery results.
Undergoing an initial consultation for a cosmetic surgical procedure isn’t a formality. It’s a one-on-one discussion with you and your plastic surgeon about surgical treatment options, conceivable risks, your overall health, aesthetic goals, and concerns.
Your cosmetic surgeon will give you a detailed discussion about the procedure, recovery, and expected results. The initial consultation is the best moment for you and your surgeon to know and build trust with each other.
Merely thinking about going under the knife may give you the jitters. But we’re here to help you pluck up your courage.
By: Paul Nassif, M.D.
Here are our 5 tips for preparing for your plastic surgery consultation.
1. Have a specific aesthetic goal.
The first thing you may want to consider is your specific aesthetic goal.
- What part of your body do you want to enhance?
- Why are you considering this cosmetic procedure?
- What benefits can you get if you undergo plastic surgery?
- What do you wish to accomplish?
Take time to think about these questions before setting an initial consultation appointment for plastic surgery. You better record your answers in a notebook to keep yourself on track. Then, during the initial consultation, you should communicate your concerns and desired goals clearly. This way, you won’t leave your plastic surgeon guessing on what you want and your desired results.
2. Prepare copies of your medical records.
When going to an initial consultation, you’ll undergo an overall health assessment and evaluation. Your cosmetic surgeon will be asking about your medical history and other relevant questions which will be vital for your health and safety. Be prepared to provide copies of your medical records.
It’s best that you’re very honest with yourself because your convenience matters most here. You may have to disclose sensitive information about your health and lifestyle so that your surgeon will be fully aware. Your plastic surgeon can create a better cosmetic surgical plan if you’re honest with your answers.
3. Do your research and be knowledgeable.
To be able to get a good interaction with your surgeon, it’s best that you have a good background about your preferred cosmetic surgical procedure. You should know how it’s done, possible risks, recovery period, and expected results. Also get a good background check about your chosen plastic surgeon. When you research and gather information, you’ll be able to inquire and communicate better with your cosmetic surgeon.
Being able to know basic information about your surgery will also help you from worrying and becoming hesitant. At least you won’t be looking dumb when your surgeon discusses with you about the operation, and you only give a blank stare.
4. Prepare your concerns and relevant questions about your surgical procedure.
Surgeries may sometimes leave you with bouts of doubt and apprehension. Maybe the best way to set a positive attitude is to jot all your concerns and questions in paper or notebook. Bring it with you and have it ready for your consultation.
Addressing your concerns with your cosmetic surgeon can give you relief from anxiety and fickle-mindedness. Moreover, addressing your concerns earlier will give way for a detailed and fruitful discussion.
5. Take your time during your consultation.
Set a schedule that won’t put you in a rush. It’s not helpful to rush things during your initial consultation. It may only lead to confusion and misunderstanding. Your plastic surgeon may not gather enough information about you, and this may end up with poorly planned, undesirable results.
Make sure that your time will allow you to be attentive of your doctor’s discussion and not be interrupted with outside calls or with kids in tow.
Remember that the consultation will be like a great deal of complicated medical instructions and advice. If you keep distracting yourself, you may not be able to communicate your concerns well. Your initial consultation may end up unsuccessful.
It’s important that you’re well-informed before undergoing plastic surgery. Your initial consultation is also the best opportunity to be able to build rapport with your plastic surgeon. Soon, your uneasy feeling and hesitation will subside. You’ll feel comfortable with your surgeon, you get his or her trust, and you’re assured that it’ll be alright.
Being able to prepare before undergoing a particular cosmetic procedure is the key to have a successful consultation. Remember that your convenience and safety comes first above everything else.