Am I Within my Rights As a Patient?

I had a necklift 4 months ago with extremely poor results. My surgeon even agreed and offered to do a revision. I said that I would like a second opinion first. I also requested a write up of the medical procedure done over 2 weeks ago. I was told that a write up would be emailed in 3 days. I have since phoned but received no response. Is this acceptable practice when a procedure is completed?

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4 months post-op patient rights

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Jean6200

Doctor Answers (4)
Community Comments (1)

Managing the sub-optimal result

Hello, Thank you for the question. The ideal situation would be for you and your plastic surgeon to reach a mutually agreeable solution. This may involve having him/her re-do or repair the neck lift, partial or full refund of the surgeons fees, or some other arrangement. In terms of paperwork what you need is the operative report as well as the before and after photos. These will be the most important in terms of getting a second opinion. You could request... more

Correcting a Neck Lift

If you trusted the doctor for the operation and you do not like the results, you should realize that even the best neck lift surgeons have results with which they may not be happy. If the doctor has performed many of these procedures and he has good credentials, I would consider having the first surgeon performing the revision.

Corrective Cosmetic Surgery

Yes, it is certainly not unreasonable for you to ask for and receive a copy of your medical records. You really just need a copy of your operative report and pre operative pictures. May I suggest that you again approach your surgeon but, in a non adversarial fashion. Consider calling and request/ ask for a copy of these materials. They are important so, go by and pick them up at a time when you know your surgeons office is open & not busy. Yes, it is normal to become... more

When can you expect receipt of records?

In California, business have up to 14 days to provide you with requested records. That being said, it sounds like your surgeon acknowledged your concerns and was willing to work with you to achieve a better result. What is motivating you to seek a second opinion at more costs? Assuming your surgeon is a decent one, I would think a revision should address your concerns. Regardless, make sure your chosen surgeon fully understands what you expect or you could still be... more

Curtis Wong, MD

7 reviews

Redding Plastic Surgeon

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Comments (1)

Jean6200 13 Jan 2013

Thank you for your comments. I am rather anxious about allowing a surgeon to perform a revision procedure when I was completely dissatisfied with the first. How common is it to request a refund?

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