How to approach consultation(s) for revision–given that the original surgeon is senior and well-known in my area?

Question

I would like to consult for revision liposuction (due to very poor results from the primary). The original surgeon is senior and well-known in the field and in my area. I met with one doctor, but when I told him who the original surgeon was, he dismissed me, telling me to go back to that surgeon. Treating me may have been less important for him than avoiding potentially impairing his relationship with my original surgeon, by performing a revision on that surgeon’s former patient. How to proceed?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Heather176,
finding the right Dr. is extremely challenging especially with the number of online platforms and resources available. There a lot of great Dr's available. Make sure he/she is a board-certified plastic surgeon. Definitely check to make sure your choice specializes in the procedure you want and spend the time to read through patient testimonials. There is a number of different sites where you can check for reviews (Realself, yelp, google, etc.).You can always pick up the phone and call around also, find an office you feel comfortable with and set up a few consultations. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you are uncomfortable returning to your surgeon to discuss a revision then it is fine to seek a different surgeon.  You are not required to disclose the name of the previous surgeon if you are concerned.  The second surgeon you consulted with may have been suggesting that your original surgeon would be the best to address your concerns.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Pending a formal evaluation, you may be a good candidate for a Revision Liposuction. You need a formal evaluation by an expert in body shaping and contouring to determine what is best. I recommend seeking another physician so you can achieve the results you desire.

The best in body contouring not only removes fat with energy devices like VASER ultrasound but also internally heats the skin with radiofrequency devices such as Renuvion (J-Plasma), InMode BodyTite, and ThermiRF to heat the undersurface of the skin and tighten it at the same time as fat removal. These combinations are called 4D HI-DEF VASER Liposuction and can only be done by a well-trained body contouring specialist. At the same time, fat should be harvested and purified, with PRP and stem cells added, and then injected into muscles, indentations and cellulite to get body shaping and contouring. For a Brazilian butt lift (BBL), we inject the fat into the buttock for contouring and lifting, but fat can also be used in areas such as the chest/breast, arms/shoulders, calves and face.  Cellulite should also be treated with a combination of QWO or Cellfina, subcision, and/or fillers such as Bellafill, Renuva synthetic fat, or Sculptra. If skin is very loose before surgery, then it will need to be removed: tummy tuck/abdominoplasty for lower abdominal skin; breast lift for excess breast skin; and/or a brachioplasty for loose arm skin. Overall, you need a full assessment, but simple liposuction alone will not tighten skin and needs a combination of various methods -- fat removal, skin tightening, defining, fat grafting, skin removal -- to get the best in body contouring and body sculpting. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

It is always best to discuss these things first with your surgeon. If then you wish to go elsewhere, perhaps don't discuss who the first surgeon was. the second surgeon really does not need that information unless they are partners.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

All plastic surgeons have patients who have not been happy with the outcomes of the procedures and have sought second opinions by other providers.

We all end up seeing each other‘s work that way.

Your experience was probably more of a fluke than common or typical behavior.

I think most plastic surgeons considering the personalities that go into this field I would be honored that you sought there assistance for help with the outcome of a procedure done by the alpha provider.

An opportunity to knock the king off his throne.

Perhaps the person you consulted with simply felt that your primary provider is superior and could do a better job?

Regardless I don’t think this will be an ongoing trend.

Well plastic surgeons have big egos that is not true for all of us and there are plenty of plastic surgeons in New York City to talk to.

To find the most appropriate provider for primary or revision procedures I encourage patients to have multiple consultations regardless.

Be an advocate for yourself and expect each and every provider to be an advocate for your well-being as well.  if not then choose someone who will.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

How to approach consultation(s) for revision–given that the original surgeon is senior and well-known in my area?

Answers (5)

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Seeking second opinions for revision work

Answer: Seeking second opinions for revision work

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction Revision

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

How to approach consultation(s) for revision–given that the original surgeon is senior and well-known in my area?

Answers (5)

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Seeking second opinions for revision work

Answer: Seeking second opinions for revision work

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction Revision

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