My consultation was with the coordinator - is that the norm?

Question

I recently had a consultation. This appointment was scheduled months in advance. I was looking forward discussing my issues with the doctor but my consultantation was with a coordinator only. Is this what most plastic surgeons do?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I cannot speak for all plastic surgeons, but as a board certified plastic surgeon, I conduct virtual and in-person consultations myself. During the one hour consultation, I address the potential patient's questions and concerns. When we arrive at a consensus with respect to the best path forward, I provide a quote for the cost of the surgery. From that point on, my patient coordinator arranges the date of surgery, emails the patient pre and post operative guidelines, medications to avoid before and after surgery, collects payments, and provides lab slips for results to be provided to me within two weeks of surgery.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Like other plastic surgeons have mentioned, this should not be the norm. While some practices may have coordinators help with scheduling and initial paperwork, a one-on-one consultation with the plastic surgeon is essential for discussing your specific concerns, goals, and the surgical plan.

At my practice, I conduct all virtual and in-person consultations one-on-one with the patient. This allows me to fully understand your needs and ensure that you’re comfortable and informed about the procedure. It’s important for the surgeon to evaluate you personally, answer your questions, and provide tailored advice.

If you can't get a consultation with the plastic surgeon, I recommend reaching out to other board-certified plastic surgeons who prioritize patient care and direct consultation.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Andrew Ray, DO · Answer

If you had your initial consult with a coordinator that means you had a consult with a non medical professional whose income is based on selling surgeries. This is common practice with large chain surgery centers like sonabello. I would highly recommend getting a consult with a practice whose surgeon sees you at initial consult. Many of us will do complimentary consults, or even paying up to 150$ for a consult is reasonable, and most sights you can apply that money towards surgery if you book it.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

No, it is not the norm. Not in any practice that I know of at least. Not offering a consultation with the surgeon is disrespectful to the patient and borderline unethical. A consultation by the board certified plastic surgeon that will be performing your surgery is essential. 
I’m sure you can ask to have your surgeon see you for a real consultation. Either in-person or virtually, and not just 10 mins before your procedure. This shouldn’t be a problem. If this is not possible I would recommend you look fro someone else.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each practice will have its own protocol for how consultations are handled but in most cases you will see the surgeon and be evaluated.  It is important that you have an opportunity to ask questions and that you feel well informed.  If this did not occur contact the office to schedule another visit.

Daniel Schmid, MD · Answer

That should not be the norm.  You should definitely be evaluated by the doctor who is going to perform your procedure ideally in person.  The doctor should examine you to see what is necessary.

Olivier Deigni, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Some plastic surgeons and other surgery offices will have coordinators meet with prospective patients. This should not be the norm especially if you are paying for a consultation with a plastic surgeon. I recommend that you seek out a practice where you will be able to meet with a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in the area you are wanting to have addressed. Best wishes!

Peter Andolina, DO · Answer

Every surgeon and every practice performs consultations differently. It is not uncommon to have a preliminary consultation with a coordinator. During that visit the coordinator will usually go over a patient's concerns and provide information about various procedures in order to help direct the patient as to what surgery/procedure would be best for them. After meeting with the coordinator a second consult is usually scheduled where the patient will meet with the surgeon directly and finalize plans. Other practices will have patients meet with the surgeon directly, it is all a matter of surgeon/practice preference and no way is better or worse than the other.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Great observation! If using a clinic budget setting this is their format to have non medical personnel evaluate you, for a paid commission. You only see the surgeon 10 minutes before the operation starts. This is NOT the norm... In my 42 years in private practice of plastic surgery, this clinic or "chop shop" concept is within the last 10 years to round up the patients for discounted surgeries or just surgeries in a conveyer belt system. If you want plastic surgery, always best to see in person or virtually the surgeon whom is doing your operation, you think? Good luck in navigating the COSMETIC SURGERY waters, just be careful out there!

H. Joseph Naim, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately some programs use a coordinator for consultation and all the work-up before the surgery. Obviously this will lower the quality of care and the patient satisfaction as Coordinators have no medical training.
It's important that you ask to meet with your surgeon and otherwise look at this scenario as a red-flag.

My consultation was with the coordinator - is that the norm?

Answers (10)

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