You must answer a few questions before going for plastic surgery. Many people put the cart before the horse by reflecting on the process and likely outcome without thinking about the surgeon handling the procedure. It can be challenging to choose the appropriate plastic surgeon because of the delicate nature of the surgery.
Relying on internet searches or referrals can be risky; you must critically examine the surgeon before surrendering yourself to him. Everybody wants to choose a surgeon with a track record of excellence. Thus, ask yourself these questions when making a choice:
- Does my preferred surgeon possess the needed experience for this particular procedure?
- Does the surgeon have the competence or experience needed for this procedure?
- Do they have exceptional performance for other patients over time?
If your preferred surgeon ticks all the boxes, you can reliably proceed with them.
We will briefly shed light on these three selection parameters:
Experience and Competence
Every plastic surgeon should earn the American Board of Plastic Surgery certification or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. The board certification assures that a surgeon has the prerequisite training and will adhere to safety procedures. Due to the complexity of the field, it requires years of education and training.
However, that a medical surgeon has the prerequisite certification(s) does not mean they can ideally conduct your surgery. You should inquire about your shortlisted surgeon’s antecedents in speaking, teaching, and writing about your preferred procedure. Their response will indicate if they are up to the task.
Experience Level
Apart from the prerequisite education and training, you must establish that your surgeon has experience in the type of surgery you want. Most surgeons are specialists in particular procedures. If your procedure type is not part of their “top three” specializations, they are not the appropriate physician for you.
You will be safe if your chosen surgeon has performed your procedure at least once a week over the past five years. A plastic surgeon must stay in practice to master this complex art. If the physician has done numerous procedures over time, it will assure you of their mastery.
Outstanding Results
The first thought that drops to mind when you mention plastic surgery is the outcome. Everyone undergoing the procedure wants the best result, but that is only sometimes the story; some procedures are unsuccessful. Apart from establishing that your preferred surgeon has the experience level, you must also ensure they have produced mouthwatering results over the years.
Most plastic surgeons are meticulous enough to keep their patients’ “before and after” images for people’s examination. You should not be fixated on the “after” pictures taken immediately after the procedure; instead, tell the surgeon to show you at least three “after” images of their patients one or more years after the surgery.
Implementing these three tips will ensure you have covered the physical aspects of the procedure, but there is more to the story. Ensure your surgeon also has a good personality; this can make a difference! An ideal medical professional will show appreciable care about your feelings.
“Personable surgeons are often caring, empathetic, and compassionate. They are also available, confident, amiable, and fluent in communication,” says Dr. Daniel of Dr. Lee B. Daniel, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Following these tips will ensure you do not fall into the wrong hands. Developing a good relationship with the entire workforce in the facility can also help ease the process.
