Would it be rude to switch surgeons within the practice (facelift concerns)?

Question

This doctor has done surgery on my before with fantastic results, but I've already put $1000 down and go for my pre-op Friday. When I had a second consult with him, he said he does the scar pre-tragal. Also, having a neck lift and he will be using incision behind the ear area. It seems most doctors do the inch long incision under the chin. I'm so nervous and want good and long lasting results and minimal scarring. I'm a 48 year old female, non-smoker, btw.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The retrotragal incision is staid to be hidden. However, this this approach distorts the tragus. There is nothing inconspicuous about this approach. If he does not perform an incision under the chin, then he does not plan on performing a midline platysmaplasty. Many surgeons do not. However, this extra work is extremely important. In fact in many patients their sole facial procedure may just be neck liposuction with a midline plastysmaplasty. Please listen to your intuition. No not worry about the surgeon's feelings. He is a big boy and will get over it. Decided if it makes sense to see another surgeon in the group or to seek care with another office.

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. It seems that you have a good relationship with this surgeon. Removing skin with incision behind the ear is considered the standard approach for neck lift, and if he is recommending it you most likely need it. Also, switching from pre- to retro-tragal incision is very simple, if this is what you prefer. You should discuss these concerns with your surgeon. I hope this helps. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Double board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon, Houston. TX.

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

It's your face and it's completely ok to stop and research more. You can ask for a post tragal incision if needed. Almost all doctors go behind the ears. With a traditional SMAS lift, it's often necessary to do a platysmaplasty via a sub mental incision. However, with a deep plane lift which I feel is a superior lift, often a sub mental incision is not needed. It's best to do more research if you feel uneasy.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I do pretty gal incisions in my facelifts as well. Retrotragal incisions cause the ear to look weird. If that's the big hang up just tell the doctor you want the retrotragal incision. As far as behind the ear incisions. You need to have them to remove the loose skin if the neck. That's not what the chin incision is there for. Consider seeing your surgeon again and give him the chance to explain these things.

Mark F. Blake, MD · Answer

Good Morning,
This would absolutely not be considered rude. We have 6 Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in our group and not only have patients who switch but refer to one another often. Every surgeon has different techniques, views, and experiences. If we or you feel one is a better fit it would be strongly suggested that you find the provider who is best for you! Do not feel bad at all :)
Good luck in your journey
Mark F. Blake, MD

Would it be rude to switch surgeons within the practice (facelift concerns)?

Answers (6)

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Switching Surgeons

Answer: Switching Surgeons

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Would it be rude to switch surgeons within the practice (facelift concerns)?

Answers (6)

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Switching Surgeons

Answer: Switching Surgeons

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.