I am researching surgeons for breast implant surgery, and I am curious how many consultations I should go to before choosing a surgeon? I want to make the most informed, best decision for myself. Wondering if there are any recommendations of visiting 2, 3 ... or maybe some people know by the first consultation they have ... ? Thank you.
December 23, 2021
Answer: It takes three to tango. I generally advise patients to see three plastic surgeons. By that time, most patients will have a very good idea of which doctor and office they feel most comfortable going to. Beyond that, the expense in time and travel usually does not reward the effort. As always, always the proper criterion for selecting a plastic surgeon is essential. The first thing I recommend is that patients visit the American Board of Plastic Surgery to verify that the surgeon is certified. Next, I think it valuable to look for membership in the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery; this organization is very strict in its membership selection, choosing only those plastic surgeons that are experienced and dedicated to cosmetic surgical procedures. Thirdly, you should look to see if your state has a local society of plastic surgeons. If so, membership in that organization will usually indicate that the other physicians in the area approve of the plastic surgeon's commitment to patient care and adhere to strict ethical guidelines. Lastly, you should seek personal reviews from patients whom you know have been under the care of the surgeon you are considering. While online reviews may be reflective of the true experience patients have had, not all review sites are as strict as RealSelf when it comes to verifying the truth and source of the reviews.You will notice that I did not mention price. With few exceptions, most plastic surgeons will be priced within a couple of cell phone bills of one another. You should never place a priority on cost when you are putting something so precious as your health and emotional well-being at risk. The small amount of savings you may gain by going to someone simply because "they're cheaper" can certainly be erased by a poor result.
Helpful 2 people found this helpful
December 23, 2021
Answer: It takes three to tango. I generally advise patients to see three plastic surgeons. By that time, most patients will have a very good idea of which doctor and office they feel most comfortable going to. Beyond that, the expense in time and travel usually does not reward the effort. As always, always the proper criterion for selecting a plastic surgeon is essential. The first thing I recommend is that patients visit the American Board of Plastic Surgery to verify that the surgeon is certified. Next, I think it valuable to look for membership in the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery; this organization is very strict in its membership selection, choosing only those plastic surgeons that are experienced and dedicated to cosmetic surgical procedures. Thirdly, you should look to see if your state has a local society of plastic surgeons. If so, membership in that organization will usually indicate that the other physicians in the area approve of the plastic surgeon's commitment to patient care and adhere to strict ethical guidelines. Lastly, you should seek personal reviews from patients whom you know have been under the care of the surgeon you are considering. While online reviews may be reflective of the true experience patients have had, not all review sites are as strict as RealSelf when it comes to verifying the truth and source of the reviews.You will notice that I did not mention price. With few exceptions, most plastic surgeons will be priced within a couple of cell phone bills of one another. You should never place a priority on cost when you are putting something so precious as your health and emotional well-being at risk. The small amount of savings you may gain by going to someone simply because "they're cheaper" can certainly be erased by a poor result.
Helpful 2 people found this helpful
September 1, 2014
Answer: Number of surgical consultations for breast augment No more than 3 and preferrably 2 unless you don't click with either one. See only board certified plastic surgeons to narrow the field. Augmentation is confusing to many patients judging from the number of questions posted on Real Self on implant size, profile, saline v. silicone v. gummies, and the surgical incision sites. These issues are very important and you will need to resolve, in your own mind, what will work for you based on the surgeons' proposals. Decide who you are comfortable with and who spends enough time with you, rather than sloughing you off on the patient coordinators. Try to read up as much as possible to make meaningful use of the consult time.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
September 1, 2014
Answer: Number of surgical consultations for breast augment No more than 3 and preferrably 2 unless you don't click with either one. See only board certified plastic surgeons to narrow the field. Augmentation is confusing to many patients judging from the number of questions posted on Real Self on implant size, profile, saline v. silicone v. gummies, and the surgical incision sites. These issues are very important and you will need to resolve, in your own mind, what will work for you based on the surgeons' proposals. Decide who you are comfortable with and who spends enough time with you, rather than sloughing you off on the patient coordinators. Try to read up as much as possible to make meaningful use of the consult time.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful