If you’re considering plastic or cosmetic surgery, the first thing you’ll have to do is schedule a cosmetic surgery consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. This is also known as scheduling pre-op appointments, although there’s no pressure to undergo the actual surgery if you don’t feel comfortable.
Your cosmetic surgery consultation isn’t meant to make you feel pressured. Think of it as your chance to gain clarity on the plastic surgery you’re considering and to get to know the plastic surgeon who you’ll potentially be setting the surgery date with. It’s also an opportunity to learn about any risks involved with the procedure you’re considering.
While there’s a long list of potential plastic surgeries you can get, most plastic surgery consultations will cover the same ground. If you haven’t had any previous surgeries, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the process so you know what to expect.
Why Do I Need a Plastic Surgery Consultation?
Booking an appointment time for a consultation with a plastic surgeon is a must before scheduling a plastic surgery procedure. Plastic surgery consultations are meant to ensure patient safety. They usually involve a physical exam and review of your complete medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure, which mitigates potential plastic surgery risks. Therefore, you may be asked to put on a patient gown to make the exam easier.
Plastic surgery consultations are also meant to ensure you feel comfortable with the plastic surgeon. They are your opportunity to discuss their qualifications and review their portfolio to ensure you get the results you’re looking for.
This is also when you’ll learn everything you need to know about the procedure, from preparation to recovery to post-op appointments. You will be able to ask all your questions and learn how to prepare for your next steps.
What Is Discussed During a Cosmetic Surgery Consultation?
While plastic surgery consultations generally only last an hour, most plastic surgeons will cover a lot of details. During your initial consultation, you can expect to discuss the following:
What the Plastic Surgery Entails
What the Plastic Surgery EntailsThe details of the actual procedure will depend on the type of plastic surgery you’re considering. You’ll learn what the procedure involves and how long it will take. Your surgeon will also discuss the type of patient for whom the procedure is intended to ensure that it’s the right procedure for what you’re looking for.
The Plastic Surgeon’s Qualifications
A good board-certified plastic surgeon will tell you about themselves at the beginning of the appointment. They’ll discuss their qualifications and where they trained, and they’ll provide you with a portfolio of before and after photos.
This is also your chance to ask as many questions as possible to learn more about them. Most patients will bring a list of specific questions about their experience, schooling, plastic surgery techniques, etc. An American board-certified surgeon should have nothing to hide and answer all of your questions appropriately.
Your Medical History and Current Health
One of the most important aspects of your consultation is discussing your medical history and current health. Your surgeon will want to know about any previous or ongoing medical conditions, current medications, allergies, previous reactions to anesthesia, etc.
They’ll also want to know if you smoke or use recreational drugs, as these can put you at risk for possible complications during and after the procedure.
This is to ensure that you’re healthy enough for the procedure and the healing process. Certain medical problems may render you ineligible for plastic surgery, which is why you must be honest during your consultation.
The Recovery Process
Your surgeon will also explain in great detail what recovery looks like for the plastic surgery you’re considering. Many patients find that recovery periods range from six to eight weeks, but it all depends on the specific procedure and many other factors.
Most importantly, you’ll talk about the aftercare instructions involved. This may require that immediate family, a friend, or a significant other make arrangements to help you during the first week or two of recovery.
You’ll also be advised to arrange for transportation after the surgery, as you won’t be able to drive or operate heavy machinery for up to a week.
Costs Associated With the Plastic Surgery
You’ll also discuss costs during the consultation. This may be done by the surgeon themselves or a patient coordinator after the consultation. The costs will likely range from first appointment fees to follow-up appointments, but you’ll get the total upfront.
Keep in mind that if you choose to schedule the surgery on the same day as your consultation, you’ll likely be required to make a downpayment. Most surgeons offer special plastic surgery financing options, which the surgeon or patient coordinator will explain to you as well.
What You Can Expect From the Results
Having an accurate picture of what your results will look like is essential to your satisfaction and your surgeon’s reputation. They’ll explain what you can expect from the procedure or procedures you’re scheduling.
While they’ll address all your concerns, they’ll emphasize having realistic expectations to ensure you’re still interested in the procedure or procedures.
Plastic Surgery Consultation FAQs
How long does it take to get a consultation with a plastic surgeon?
It can take several weeks to schedule a consultation with an in-demand plastic surgeon who specializes in multiple cosmetic procedures. Fortunately, if you have any concerns while waiting for an appointment, the office staff is usually more than happy to address them.
Is there a plastic surgery consultation fee?
Your initial plastic surgery consultation may come with a fee. However, it depends on the plastic surgeon.
Am I a good candidate for plastic surgery?
A good candidate for plastic surgery is an individual who is in good health, is a non-smoker, and has no serious medical conditions or allergies.
Schedule Your Plastic Surgery Consultation With Dr. Dahlia Rice
Dr. Dahlia Rice is a highly skilled female plastic surgeon who is American board certified. She specializes in multiple cosmetic surgery procedures in Chicago.
If you’re considering plastic surgery, be sure to book your consultation now to avoid the long wait!