Is it okay to request operative summary / surgical notes?

Question

Would it be considered an affront to request my Operative Summary / Surgical Notes from my surgeon? There are no issues, it's just that I really like owning my medical records (lab results, etc.) just in case I need to refer to them in future - I want to know exactly what's been "done" to me. If I ask for the surgical notes for my records - is this considered inappropriate or making them think I'm planning legal action or something? I don't want to create problems! Thank you.

Kerry Owens, MD · Answer

You are absolutely entitled to have copies of your medical records, and it should not be an affront to your surgeon to ask for them.  While it is true that a records request is sometimes a red flag that a patient is considering legal action, if you are still seeing your surgeon in follow up and have a good relationship, just let them know why you are interested in having the records.  I don't think most surgeons would have any concern about this at all.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!  We would love to meet with you to discuss your goals. They are your medical records.  You can request them at any time.  Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Fouad V. Atalla, MD · Answer

It is absolutely okay for patients to request the operative report after their procedure. The goal is to ensure that patients are well-informed and confident in their care, and the report provides valuable details about the procedure.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

You can certainly ask for your medical records and it should be no issue for your surgeon’s office to provide them.

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

I think it is a good idea for you to maintain medical records, including an op note and breast implant information if this is relevant.  For almost any type of surgery I do it would be helpful for me to see a previous surgeons notes to better understand what has already been done.  It should not be an affront to any surgeon to give you or even offer you the operative note.  It would be a nice gesture for you to tell the office that you are just collecting them for your records.  Everyone breathes a bit more easily!

Is it okay to request operative summary / surgical notes?

Answers (8)

Answer: Shouldn't be an issue

Answer: Shouldn't be an issue

Answer: Note and other records

Answer: Note and other records

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Is it okay to request operative summary / surgical notes?

Answers (8)

Answer: Shouldn't be an issue

Answer: Shouldn't be an issue

Answer: Note and other records

Answer: Note and other records

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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