Questions to ask your Plastic Surgeon
As you start your quest to determine the right plastic surgeon for you, you probably already have many questions in mind to ask at your consultation appointment. Or you might be part of the group that is overwhelmed with not knowing where to start or what exactly to ask. There are so many things to consider when making such an important decision to undergo elective cosmetic surgery, but of utmost importance is the process of selecting a qualified plastic surgeon. After all, your surgeon is the person who is responsible for your life (and looks) in his or her hands. You will want to know as much as possible about your prospective surgeon’s credentials, experience, technique, and skills.
Top 5 questions you should ask your plastic surgeon before scheduling surgery:
1. Are you board certified?
There are many certifications a surgeon may obtain and it may get confusing for someone trying to do research. The gold standard in the field of plastic surgery is to obtain the certification by The American Board of Plastic Surgery. This indicates that your surgeon has complete extensive training to prove he is highly knowledgable and experienced in his specialty. When you visit Dr. Alexander’s Las Vegas practice, you will notice his certifications are framed in each exam room… you will also notice that he is triple board certified!
2. Is this a procedure you specialize in?
Some plastic surgeons specialize in particular body parts and techniques. It is important you match your procedure with an experienced surgeon to match your desired results.
3. Where will the procedure be performed?
Depending on the surgery, it may be performed in a hospital, accredited surgical facility, or in office. If your procedure is not performed in a hospital, it is still important that you find out if your doctor has any hospital privileges. Almost all hospitals have strict requirements regarding surgeon training and experience before they grant privileges. Dr. Alexander has priveleges in several of Las Vegas hospitals.
4. Who will assist you during the procedure?
Most procedures require general anesthesia to be administered. You will want him or her to be highly qualified and knowledgeable in the type of anesthesia they will be using and that they will be carefully monitoring your vital signs during surgery at all times. There will also be a team of assistants in the operating room. Be sure that these members are familiar with assisting with plastic surgery and comfortable working with your surgeon.
5. What are the risks involved for this surgery and what is your risk rate?
Your surgeon should go over this in detail before you even get a chance to ask. Knowing what you are getting your self into completely is important in making informed and smart choices. Make sure your surgeon is safety focused and you are in good hands.
Before you leave your consultation appointment make sure you understand the fee’s involved. Ask to look at before and after pictures or ask speak with patients who had similar surgery.
