All major cosmetic surgeries require a plastic surgeon consultation before an operation can be booked. This is a crucial appointment for patients. At it, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss your goals, go over your medical history, and review your options for treatment.
Not only is your consultation a time to meet your surgeon and get to know him or her, but it’s also a time to review your candidacy for surgery. All patients must be in good physical health and have realistic expectations before they can be cleared to undergo their desired procedure(s). It’s also not uncommon for a patient to come in for a consultation thinking they want one surgery and to leave realizing they would benefit far more from another.
Preparing for your consultation appointment is of the utmost importance. We recommend making a list of questions to ask beforehand so that you have something to refer to at your appointment. Chances are, your surgeon and their team will guide you through several steps before you arrive at a good time to ask questions, but being prepared will ensure you leave your consultation appointment knowing everything you need to in order to move forward.
Ask These Questions at Your Cosmetic Surgery Consultation
1. Are you a board certified plastic surgeon?
Your surgeon should absolutely be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This simply ensures you are working with the best in the field.
Board certification proves that a surgeon went above and beyond their career requirements, going through expensive rigorous education and training and passing difficult oral and written exams.
2. Do you have experience performing my desired surgery?
Let’s say you’re seeking a breast augmentation. It’s important to ask your surgeon whether they specialize in this procedure. Many surgeons perform all sorts of surgeries, but they have one or two areas they specialize in — such as breast surgery, body contouring, facial surgery, etc. Although it’s not a requirement, it’s best to choose a surgeon who specializes in the area you are seeking to improve.
Don’t hesitate to inquire how often they perform your desired surgery and for how long they have been performing it. It’s perfectly okay to ask to see before and after photos as well.
3. Do I qualify for surgery?
Before officially scheduling pre op appointments or the surgery date itself, your surgeon needs to go over your medical history in detail. This is for patient safety and to prevent possible complications. We want to be sure that you are a good candidate for the operation you desire and that the surgery and the recovery process will be safe for you.
To do this, your surgeon will review your complete medical history, including any previous surgeries, past medical problems or current medical conditions, and current medications or supplements you are taking. They may also ask you some questions about your lifestyle, use of recreational drugs, and the health of your immediate family. Often, this information is collected ahead of time by a patient coordinator.
With most surgeons, you will also need to undergo a short physical exam.
4. What are my options for surgery?
Your surgeon will help you choose the right procedure for your goals. But sometimes, you’ll have more than one option. Together with your surgeon, you’ll be able to weigh the pros and cons of each until you come up with the plan you like best and feel most comfortable with.
5. What risks can I expect with surgery?
Despite most plastic surgeries being safe, all cosmetic surgery procedures come with risks. It doesn’t matter if it’s a cosmetic surgery or a medically necessary surgery.
Still, you want to know about them. So, if your surgeon doesn’t bring them up first, be sure to ask what the risks are for your surgery and current situation.
6. What’s the recovery like?
Once you know what your options are for surgery, inquire about the recovery experience. Different procedures come with different recovery times and recovery symptoms. Knowing about this beforehand can help prepare you. You will also be able to find out about post op appointments or follow up appointments that will help guide your recovery.
7. How much will my surgery cost?
Lastly, at your consultation appointment is a good place to discuss costs associated with cosmetic surgery. Of course, you may still be getting a ballpark estimate at your appointment, depending on if additional appointments or tests are necessary.
Still, your surgeon should be able to give you at least a strong estimate and details about associated costs at your first appointment. Later, once they have a more accurate picture of your situation, you should receive a more detailed quote as well as financing options, if available.
FAQ: Plastic Surgery Consultation Appointments
Are plastic surgery consultation appointments free?
Many surgeons charge a plastic surgeon consultation fee. But sometimes, this will be put toward your total bill if you choose to move forward with surgery. Other surgeons charge a fee no matter what.
How much is a consultation with a plastic surgeon?
Consultation prices vary. Sometimes, they are free. Otherwise, they are typically between $100 and $200. There is no hard-and-fast answer. Be sure to call the office beforehand if you want to know the cost for sure.
If you plan on booking consultations with numerous plastic surgeons before making your final choice, you may want to find those who do not charge a fee. In this case, search “plastic surgeon near me free consultation” or “plastic surgeon free consultation” followed by your desired location.
Call Today to Book a Consultation with Dr. Galanis
Dr. Charles Galanis is a board certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California. To learn more about your plastic surgery options and the benefits of plastic surgery today, please call our office and schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Galanis. We look forward to hearing from you.
