When selecting a plastic surgeon, it’s important to do your research. This blog discusses some of the essential questions to ask during your plastic surgery consultation to learn more about the procedure itself and the surgeon you’ve chosen to perform it.
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When you’ve decided on what you want to do to look and feel your best, the next step is deciding who will help you with that process. When selecting a plastic surgeon, it’s important to do your research. Besides finding someone who performs your procedure of choice, you want to be sure you’ve chosen a surgeon with the best education and credentials, as well as demonstrated experience in performing your specific procedure.
Going into your consultation, you’ll want to know some basics about your chosen procedure and what you should know about the process. This blog discusses some of the essential questions to ask your plastic surgeon to learn more about the procedure itself and the surgeon you’ve chosen to perform it.
1. Are You a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?
One of the most important questions you should ask your plastic surgeon is regarding their credentials. Board certification means that your surgeon has undergone rigorous training and education and met the stringent requirements of the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) to become board certified. They have passed a series of written and oral examinations to illustrate their skill in the field of plastic surgery, and they engage in continuing education and periodic recertification requirements. Board certification is voluntary but demonstrates your surgeon’s commitment to patient safety and the quality of their results.
2. What Is Your Experience Performing My Procedure of Choice?
Many plastic surgeons offer a wide range of procedures spanning from head to toe. While they’re likely quite experienced and skilled in all of them, many surgeons have “specialties” in which they have more extensive experience and training.
For example, Dr. Bridges is highly trained in facial surgery, performing complex jaw and facial reconstruction surgery at the LSU Medical Center. He also specializes in breast procedures, using advanced and innovative techniques in both reconstructive and cosmetic breast surgeries.
3. Am I a Good Candidate for the Procedure?
When you come in for your consultation, you will discuss several topics, including your reasons for wanting to undergo your chosen procedure, your expected results, and your medical history. Your surgeon will examine you and determine if the procedure will offer the results you are looking for or whether you would benefit from additional or alternate options. In general, ideal candidates for plastic surgery should be nonsmokers in good overall health who have realistic expectations for their results.
More specifically, good candidates for a tummy tuck are those who meet the above criteria, want to remove excess skin around their midsection, and are at a healthy, stable weight. Tummy tuck candidates should also be within a few pounds of their ideal weight and not plan to become pregnant in the future, as significant weight gain or loss will affect their results.
4. What Are the Risks Associated With My Cosmetic Procedure?
All plastic surgery procedures come with potential risks, which generally include:
- Anesthesia risks
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Blood clots
- Excessive bleeding
- Asymmetrical results
When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, the chances of complications are significantly reduced. Being in good physical health will also help reduce your complication risk. During your consultation, you can discuss any risks specific to your chosen procedure and will receive pre- and post-operative instructions so you know what to look for and expect as you heal.
5. What Can I Expect From My Cosmetic Surgery Recovery?
Recovery times and requirements vary depending on the cosmetic surgery you undergo. However, most procedures have the same general guidelines. For most surgeries, you can expect to:
- Take one to two weeks off work
- Rest and refrain from daily activities for at least the first week
- Slowly return to exercise and everyday activities two to four weeks after surgery
- Refrain from strenuous exercise and other activities for at least six weeks
During your consultation, you can get more details on the recovery requirements specific to your procedure and ask questions to ensure that you are well-prepared for your recovery period.
Learn More About Plastic Surgery in Shreveport
If you’ve been considering undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure, the best thing you can do is research. When you go in for your consultation, come prepared with questions and concerns to make the best of your time with the surgeon. Feel free to ask about expected results (including if they have before and after photos of their work), as well as the cost of the procedure and available financing options. To schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. McIntyre Bridges of Bridges to Beauty, call us today at (318) 219-8555 or complete the online contact form.
