You’ve decided to take the next step and schedule a consultation for Raleigh plastic surgery. This is an exciting time, but it’s normal to feel some nerves too. Going in prepared with questions can help put your mind at ease, so you can determine if this surgeon and procedure are right for you. Here are some important questions you’ll want to ask at your consultation.
How Long Have You Been Practicing?
An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who has been practicing for several years can give you greater confidence in their skills and expertise. Ask how long the surgeon has been practicing plastic surgery specifically, as this focused experience is key. You want to feel you’re in trusted, capable hands.
Are You Board Certified, and Where Did You Complete Your Residency?
You always want to verify that your surgeon is board certified from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which denotes rigorous training and testing requirements. Ask where they performed their residency as well, as prestigious medical centers have very competitive programs. These qualifications are reassuring indicators of their competency level.
How Many Times Have You Performed This Specific Procedure?
Not all plastic surgeons will have the same breadth of experience with every procedure. Ask specifically how many times they’ve done the exact surgery you’re considering, rather than their overall number of procedures completed. A high quantity for your particular surgery shows greater familiarity with the techniques and variability involved.
What Will My Recovery Be Like?
Understanding the reality of recovery is crucial in preparing mentally and physically. Ask detailed questions about how much pain is typically involved, what medication will be prescribed, how soon you can expect to be mobile, what assistance you’ll need initially, and when you’ll likely feel back to normal. Don’t downplay this vital part of the equation.
What Results Can I Realistically Expect?
While complete satisfaction is the goal, it’s essential to discuss realistic outcomes upfront rather than have unrealistic hopes. Ask to see before and after photos of the surgeon’s actual patients to get an accurate sense of viable results. Clarify if your anatomy or bone structure impacts expected results as well. Managing expectations is key.
Do You Have Examples of Results From Patients Similar To Me?
To get the clearest sense possible of potential outcomes, request to see before and after photos specifically of the surgeon’s patients who match parameters like your body type, skin type, bone structure, age range, and ethnicity. Similar patients can offer a useful preview of how results may translate on your own body.
How Will You Help Me Feel Comfortable and Cared For Throughout the Process?
The right surgeon should make you feel confident, comfortable and cared for from consultation to surgery to post-op. Get a sense of their bedside manner as you discuss the practice’s processes. Do they seem sincerely focused on patient experience, education and satisfaction? Their emphasis on personalized care should be clear.
Selecting the right Raleigh NC plastic surgeon for you requires asking the right questions upfront during an initial consultation. Being informed and self-advocating with an experienced, reputable surgeon whom you communicate well with, and who fulfills qualification benchmarks detailed above, will lead to greater peace of mind and patient satisfaction. Entering into any elective surgery is a big decision, so be sure to do your due diligence. With realistic expectations and the right surgeon, you’ll be on your way to achieving the aesthetic outcomes you desire.
