If you are planning to work with a plastic surgeon in Baton Rouge, attending a one-on-one consultation visit is very important. This initial visit offers an excellent opportunity for patients to get to know the surgeon in person, as well as learn more about the procedure they are interested in. You get to figure out what surgical techniques are available, what financing options are available, what recovery is like, and how much the procedure costs. In this article, we highlight 7 important questions to ask your plastic surgeon during the initial consultation just so you make the right decision.
Are you board certified?
Plastic and cosmetic surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), respectively. This accreditation is important because it shows that the surgeon adheres to the highest standards of professionalism set by these independent organizations. Membership with professional bodies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is another important indicator of a highly professional surgeon who adheres to the highest standards of training, quality, and safety.
How experienced are you?
Another important question to ask during your plastic surgery consultation in Baton Rouge is what kind of experience the plastic surgeon has in the procedure that you want to have. How many of these procedures have they performed? What surgical techniques do they specialize in? If a surgeon has performed dozens or even hundreds of successful procedures before, then there’s a high chance that they’ll succeed with you as well. It happens that more experienced surgeons tend to be more expensive than their less experienced counterparts in the same location, but the difference is usually worth it.
Where will the procedure be performed?
Minor cosmetic procedures are usually performed in a plastic surgeon’s in-office operating room. However, more invasive treatment will need to be performed at an accredited surgical hospital (particularly if an overnight stay is required). Regardless of the treatment you intend to have, you want to know that the surgery will be executed in a safe facility that is accredited by relevant state and federal bodies. This ensures that should there be a complication, you’ll be in an environment where you can receive speedy assistance and intervention.
What are the risks?
Surgical procedures come with their own inherent risks. These could range from the risk of bleeding to infections and even blood clots. You want to know what steps the surgeon will take to mitigate or at least minimize these risks. In many cases, plastic surgeons require that you make certain changes (e.g., quit smoking) in order to ensure that your body is well prepared to handle the surgery. You may also be asked to focus on a healthy diet, stop taking certain medications and supplements, and limit alcohol consumption weeks before the day of the surgery.
What type of anesthesia will be used?
Plastic surgeons usually utilize local or general anesthesia depending on the type and extensiveness of the surgery being performed. Local anesthesia is usually advantageous in that it doesn’t carry severe risks. General anesthesia, on the other hand, puts the patient to sleep and is associated with certain risks and side effects. In addition to the type of anesthesia used, you also want to know who will be responsible for administering it. Many seasoned plastic surgeons work with board-certified anesthesiologists who are highly trained and qualified.
What is recovery like?
Recovery is an important consideration when planning for plastic surgery. You want to know what steps you need to take to prepare for recovery, what supplies you need to purchase, and how much time you need to take off work. Learning as much as possible about recovery can help you arrange for a smooth experience and successful procedure outcome.
How much does the procedure cost?
Health insurers typically do not pay for cosmetic procedures because they are not considered to be medically necessary. For this reason, patients often need to pay for the treatment out of pocket. You want to know how much the procedure costs so you can make plans ahead of time. If the surgeon has financing arrangements available, or partners with third-party financing providers, you want to know so you can take the necessary steps.
Conclusion
Choosing to undergo plastic surgery is an important decision by itself. However, in order to ensure a successful procedure outcome, it is important that you take the time to identify and work with the right plastic surgeon.