Questions to Ask a Plastic Surgeon

THE SHORT ANSWER

Ask about verified credentials, your goals, alternatives, personal risks, facility arrangements, recovery and the complete written price. Take the answers home before deciding.

Credentials and experience

Which specialty board certifies you, and how can I verify it?
How often do you perform this exact procedure?
What experience do you have with concerns and anatomy like mine?
Where will the procedure take place, and who provides anesthesia?

Goals, alternatives and limitations

What is causing the concern I want to change?
What would this procedure change, and what would remain?
What are the alternatives, including no treatment?
What result would be unrealistic for me?
Can I see consented examples with consistent lighting and a relevant starting point?

Safety and recovery

What personal health factors change my risk?
Which complications need urgent attention?
Who answers after-hours concerns, and how?
What help, transport and time off should I arrange?
When can I return to my specific work and activities?
What happens if the result is unsatisfactory or a complication occurs?

The written quote

What does the total quote include and exclude?
Which follow-up visits are included?
What are the cancellation and rescheduling terms?
What additional costs could arise?
May I take the plan home and consider it before deciding?

Use the answers

These questions to ask a plastic surgeon are a conversation framework. Write the answers in your own words and flag anything you cannot explain back. A consultation should leave room for your goals, uncertainty and a decision to decline treatment.

Prepare your medical history and a list of medicines and supplements. Do not change medication on the basis of this checklist; ask your treating clinician.

Sources and review status