Plastic surgeon consultation appointments are necessary before we schedule surgery because your surgeon will first need to assess you for the procedure. That is, they will need to discuss your medical history with you, including any medical conditions you may have and other factors like medications or allergies. Some patients find that they require additional tests as well.
Most surgeons will perform a short physical exam as part of the consultation process. And of course, you’ll want to discuss your goals with your surgeon at your plastic surgery consultation. In fact, many patients don’t know what cosmetic surgery they want or need and instead will appeal to the surgeon for recommendations and best options.
Why Do I Need a Consultation Appointment?
All plastic surgeons require a consultation appointment before any procedure. This is a necessary step to ensure that the surgery is safe for you and that it will provide the results you’re hoping to achieve.
Do Plastic Surgery Consultations Cost Anything?
Plastic surgery consultations often come with a plastic surgeon consultation fee, though this varies depending on the practice. Some surgeons may offer complimentary consultations, while others charge for the time spent reviewing your case.
What Happens at a Plastic Surgeon Consultation Appointment?
Discussion of Desired Outcome
During your consultation, your surgeon will ask you about your desired outcome from the surgery. This is the time to clearly communicate what you want to achieve and how you expect the surgery to improve your appearance and quality of life. Your surgeon will listen carefully and provide feedback on what’s realistic based on your anatomy and surgical possibilities.
Review of Medical History
Your surgeon will also review your medical history to ensure you are in good health and fit for surgery. This will include questions about any past surgeries, medical conditions, allergies, and current medications. Providing thorough and accurate information is essential here.
Physical Examination
A physical examination will be conducted to assess your current anatomy. This step allows the surgeon to evaluate whether you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure and to plan the specifics of your surgery. The examination may include taking measurements or photographs to help with surgical planning and to compare results after your procedure.
Discussion of Candidacy for Surgery
Based on the information from your medical history and physical exam, the surgeon will discuss your candidacy for the procedure. They will determine whether the surgery is safe for you and whether it can provide the results you’re looking for. In some cases, the surgeon may recommend alternative procedures if the desired surgery isn’t suitable.
Discussion of Surgical Options
Your surgeon will go over the different surgical options available to you. For example, if you’re there for a breast augmentation, you’ll need to discuss breast implant types, sizes, and placement options. This conversation is key to making sure that the procedure is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Discussion of Surgery Cost and Financing Options
During the consultation, the surgeon or their team will explain the costs associated with the procedure and any additional expenses, such as anesthesia or facility fees. They’ll also discuss financing options if you’re interested in payment plans. This is the time to ask about any concerns regarding cost or payment methods to ensure you have a clear understanding.
Time to Ask Questions and Bring Up Concerns
At the end of the consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you have about the procedure, recovery, or any other concerns. It’s important to use this time to clarify any doubts and make sure you feel confident in your decision. Open communication with your surgeon is essential for a great outcome and results you love.
FAQ: Plastic Surgeon Consultation
Where can I find a plastic surgeon near me?
To find a plastic surgeon near you, start by researching board certified plastic surgeons in your area online. You can use the website of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) to search for a qualified surgeon as well.
How old do you have to be to get plastic surgery?
Younger patients may ask, “How old do you have to be to get plastic surgery?” The answer is that in most cases, patients need to be at least 18 to undergo plastic surgery without a parent’s consent. There are unique exceptions, however — for example, with ear surgery, rhinoplasty, breast reduction, etc.
What’s the difference between plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons?
In short, when it comes to plastic surgeon vs cosmetic surgeon, cosmetic surgeons focus on aesthetic problems only. Plastic surgeons have a far wider range of procedures they perform. They can perform cosmetic surgery procedures, but they can also perform reconstructive surgery — correcting malformed ears, hands, and feet or correcting functional or form issues in patients after accidents, for example.
Do you have to go to a consultation before getting plastic surgery?
Yes, a consultation is required before any plastic surgery. This is an essential step to ensure your safety and that you’ll be getting the results you’re after.
How much is a consultation with a plastic surgeon?
Plastic surgeon consultation appointments often cost a small fee. However, if you choose to move ahead with your surgery, some surgeons will put the amount of this fee toward the cost of your surgery.
There are also some surgeons who will not charge anything for their consultation appointments. If you are looking for someone like this, simply search “plastic surgeon near me free consultation”.
Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation
Whether you have a specific procedure in mind or are simply looking for options to a cosmetic or aesthetic/functional issue, please contact us today. Our knowledgeable and friendly office staff would be happy to help you set up a consultation appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Cynthia Diehl.