How far in advance of a surgery should you have your consultation?

Question

I'm considering a rhinoplasty in about a year, and found a doctor I like. My problem is, I don't know if it's acceptable to have a consultation and then not book a surgery for a very long time. I don't want to waste the doctor's time by having one so far in advance but I want to find out my options, especially the cost. From a doctor's point of view, would you prefer a patient wait until they know exactly when they'll be able to book the surgery to come in and see you? Thank you very much!

John K. Wakelin III, MD, FACS · Answer

Your consultation not only introduces you to your surgeon, but it also provides you with important information about your planned procedure and recovery that can be extremely helpful to determine the best timing for surgery.  It is never a problem to get this information and begin the planning process, even if you know if may be months or longer before you proceed.

Catherine Winslow, MD · Answer

Hello! There is nothing wrong with an early consultation, and it is always a good idea to have information in advance to be able to plan for your surgery more effectively. While it is unlikely the surgical plan will change, costs may so be aware the quote may not be accurate for future surgery. If surgery is planned far in advance you may also want to ensure your physician has no immediate plans to retire or move. Good luck!

Steven M. Denenberg, MD · Answer

In fact, it's better to go sooner. What if the doctor tell you something that you need time to think about? Maybe he can't correct everything you want corrected, or maybe he makes some suggestions you hadn't thought about before. Maybe he's a jerk in person, and you don't want to use him. Don't leave yourself in a time crunch, especially if you have a window where having the surgery makes sense.Be sure to read the section in the "Learn more" link on how to stay out of trouble while searching for a rhinoplasty surgeon. Rhinoplasty is an exquisitely difficult operation to get right, and you should only have surgery if you are able to make yourself very confident in your surgeon's skills. Read that page very carefully. 
I usually make computer morphs when I'm answering questions like this, to show the changes that are possible for a nose with a rhinoplasty, but of course you didn't post any photos. At the *very* bottom of the "Learn more" page is a link to instructions on taking and sending photos that are comprehensive and useful for an online consultation like this, in case you'd like a more complete evaluation.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I recommend seeking consultation as early as you would like.  It can allow you to get to know your surgeon better with plenty of time prior to surgery.  You could also come in for another visit closer to your surgery date in order to review everything.  It is very
important that you thoroughly research your surgeon before committing to
surgery. It is a good idea to research your surgeon's educational background,
online reviews, before & after pictures, and speak with anyone who you may
know who has had surgery with that surgeon. During your consultation, make sure
that you don't feel rushed and make sure that you have adequate time with your
surgeon and not just their patient coordinator or nurses. If the majority of
your consultation is spent with someone other than the surgeon, this is usually
not a good sign. The most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are
comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified
board-certified expert surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It is certainly acceptable to undergo a consultation now, and then a re-consultation 1 month prior to your scheduled surgery time, since it will be at least a year before your surgery.

Sahar Nadimi, MD · Answer

I'd say the earlier, the better. I recommend making a consultation request as early as possible because sometimes it takes a while to get an appointment with the doctor if their schedule is booked far in advance. Also, sometimes medical clearance is required for certain procedures and you want plenty of time to get this taken care of (if needed). I would proceed with a consultation request now. Best of luck!

Michael Sullivan, MD (retired) · Answer

A  rhinoplasty consultation can be done anytime. Of course, if enough time lapses between the consult and surgery the fees could increase. However by having the consult you get a better idea as to what might be done and what is possible. My book “ When Your Nose Doesn’t Fit” will answer many of your questions. Please call my office to receive a complimentary copy. Regards,Dr. Michael Sullivan Sullivan Centre 614-436-8888

Jay M. Pensler, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I have patients that book surgery at the time of their consultations and others who book surgery years after I have seen them. I view the consultation as a time for patient education and to see if if I feel that our interests and goals are aligned. There is no pressure to book immediately ,you are not at a used car lot.

How far in advance of a surgery should you have your consultation?

Answers (8)