Before you have plastic surgery, you will meet with
your surgeon for a consultation. Most plastic surgeons
charge a consultation fee, since they are providing a
professional evaluation, recommendation and explanation
of procedures. Others offer free consultations. Be sure
to ask about fees when you make the appointment.
During the consultation, you will want to discuss your
goals with your surgeon. Your surgeon will examine you
and advise the best procedure to achieve your desired
results.
The surgeon should:
| • |
answer all of your questions
thoroughly and clearly |
| • |
ask for your reaction to recommendations |
| • |
offer alternatives, where appropriate,
without pressuring you to consider unneeded or additional
procedures |
| • |
welcome questions about professional
qualifications, experience, costs and payment policies |
| • |
make clear the risks of surgery
and possible outcomes |
| • |
give you information about the surgery
you want |
| • |
leave the final decision to you |
You also have the right to expect that your surgery will
take place in a surgical facility or hospital that is
safe and well-equipped. Facilities with accreditation
from a recognized accrediting organization have demonstrated
that they have appropriate equipment and staff to safely
monitor patients and deal with potential complications.
Ask whether the facility your surgeon uses is accredited,
or is in the process of being accredited. |