Top Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon
Most plastic surgery procedures are relatively safe when performed by a qualified board certified plastic surgeon. Being an informed consumer can help ensure that you get optimal results. Here are some questions you should ask before you schedule any cosmetic procedure.
Questions to Ask Before You’ve Selected a Plastic Surgeon:
- Are you board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)?
- How many procedures of this type have you performed?
- Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
- Where would my surgery be performed? Is the facility accredited?
- Who would administer the anesthesia? (Ideally, an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist)
- Do you have monitoring devices and life-saving equipment?
- Are there alternatives to surgery?
Questions to Ask After You've Selected a Plastic Surgeon:
- What are the risks involved with my procedure?
- What can I do to help ensure optimal results?
- What should I do to prepare for surgery?
- How long will my recovery period be? What can I expect during recovery? What kind of help will I need?
- Will I need to take time off work? If so, how long?
How to Check Your Plastic Surgeon’s Credentials
Check with the ABPS to make sure your plastic surgeon is board certified. Contact the facility where the procedure will be performed and verify your surgeon’s credentials. Check with your state medical board to see if any complaints or malpractice suits have been filed against your surgeon.
References
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons, www.plasticsurgery.org/
- edicineNet, Inc., www.medicinenet.com
- ABC News. Questions to Ask Before Cosmetic Surgery,abcnews.go.com