25 Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon Before Any Procedure

Walking into a plastic surgery consultation can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first time considering a cosmetic procedure. The difference between a good outcome and a disappointing one often starts with the questions you ask during this initial meeting. A thorough consultation should feel like a two-way conversation where you gather as much information as your surgeon gathers about you.

We have compiled the 25 most important questions every patient should ask before committing to any cosmetic procedure. These questions will help you evaluate your surgeon's qualifications, understand the specifics of your procedure, set realistic expectations, and plan for a smooth recovery. Print this list or save it on your phone so you have it ready for your appointment.

Questions About Your Surgeon's Credentials

1. Are you board-certified in plastic surgery? Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery is the gold standard. It confirms your surgeon completed an accredited residency in plastic surgery and passed comprehensive written and oral examinations. Do not confuse this with certifications from lesser-known boards.
2. How many times have you performed this specific procedure? Volume matters. Surgeons who regularly perform your chosen procedure develop refined techniques and can better handle unexpected situations. Look for surgeons who perform your procedure at least weekly.
3. Can I see before-and-after photos of your patients? A robust portfolio of consistent results is more telling than any credential. Look for patients with similar starting anatomy to yours and pay attention to photo quality and consistency in lighting and angles.
4. What is your complication rate for this procedure? An honest surgeon will share this information openly. Complication rates vary by procedure, but a surgeon who claims to have zero complications is either inexperienced or not being truthful.
5. Where will my surgery be performed and is the facility accredited? Surgery should take place in a hospital, an accredited ambulatory surgery center, or an office-based surgical suite that meets state and national safety standards.

Questions About Your Procedure

1. What surgical technique do you recommend for my goals? For example, with rhinoplasty, there are open and closed approaches. With breast augmentation, implants can be placed above or below the muscle. Understanding why your surgeon recommends a specific approach builds confidence.
2. Am I a good candidate for this procedure? Not every patient is an ideal candidate. Your surgeon should evaluate your anatomy, health status, and expectations honestly rather than simply agreeing to perform any procedure you request.
3. What type of anesthesia will be used? Knowing whether you will receive general anesthesia, IV sedation, or local anesthesia helps you prepare mentally and physically. Each option has different risk profiles and recovery implications.
4. How long will the procedure take? Surgical time varies based on complexity and technique. Longer procedures may carry slightly higher risks related to anesthesia exposure and blood clot formation.
5. What results can I realistically expect? Your surgeon should set honest expectations. Be wary of anyone who guarantees perfection or promises outcomes that seem too good to be true.

Questions About Recovery and Risks

1. What is the typical recovery timeline? Ask about when you can return to work, exercise, and normal daily activities. Recovery timelines differ significantly between procedures like Botox, which has virtually no downtime, and liposuction or body contouring, which may require weeks of restricted activity.
2. What are the specific risks and complications for this procedure? Beyond general surgical risks, each procedure has unique complications. Understanding these helps you make a truly informed decision.
3. What is your policy if I need a revision? Reputable surgeons typically offer complimentary or reduced-fee revision surgery within a specified timeframe if results do not meet agreed-upon goals. Get this policy in writing.
4. How should I prepare for surgery? Pre-operative instructions often include stopping certain medications, quitting smoking, arranging transportation, and fasting before anesthesia.
5. What post-operative care will I need? Ask about drain management, compression garments, wound care, activity restrictions, and how many follow-up appointments are included in your surgical fee.

Questions About Cost and Logistics

1. What is the total cost including all fees? Request an itemized quote covering surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility costs, implants or materials, post-operative garments, and follow-up visits. Hidden costs can inflate your final bill significantly.
2. Do you offer financing options? Many practices partner with medical financing companies like CareCredit or Prosper Healthcare Lending. Ask about interest rates, promotional periods, and monthly payment estimates.
3. What happens if surgery is canceled or rescheduled? Understand the cancellation and rescheduling policy including any associated fees. Life events and health changes sometimes require plan adjustments.
4. Who should I contact if I have concerns after hours? Knowing you have access to your surgical team around the clock provides peace of mind during recovery. Ask whether an on-call surgeon is always available.
5. Will you communicate with my primary care physician? Coordination between your plastic surgeon and primary care doctor ensures continuity of care, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many consultations should I have before plastic surgery?

Most experts recommend consulting with at least two to three different board-certified plastic surgeons before making your decision. This allows you to compare approaches, pricing, and communication styles. If all three surgeons recommend the same technique and give similar assessments, you can feel confident in your choice.

What should I bring to my plastic surgery consultation?

Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, your medical history including prior surgeries, reference photos showing your desired results, a list of prepared questions, and your insurance information if applicable. Wearing minimal makeup and easy-to-remove clothing can help if the surgeon needs to examine the treatment area.

How long does a plastic surgery consultation usually last?

A thorough consultation typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. During this time, the surgeon will examine your anatomy, discuss your goals, explain the recommended approach, review risks and recovery, and answer your questions. Be cautious of consultations that feel rushed or last fewer than 20 minutes, as this may indicate the surgeon is not giving your case adequate attention.

Is a plastic surgery consultation free?

Consultation fees vary widely by practice. Some surgeons offer complimentary consultations, while others charge $50 to $300, which may or may not be applied toward the cost of surgery. A consultation fee does not necessarily indicate a better surgeon, but it does help filter for patients who are serious about moving forward.

What red flags should I look for during a plastic surgery consultation?

Major red flags include a surgeon who is not board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, reluctance to share before-and-after photos or complication rates, pressure to commit or pay immediately, guarantees of perfection, a facility that looks unprofessional or lacks accreditation, and a surgeon who dismisses your concerns or does not listen to your goals.

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