Cosmetic surgery consultations
Your initial one-on-one consultation with the
plastic surgeon is an essential part of your decision
to have cosmetic surgery. During the consultation,
you and the plastic surgeon will get to know one
another and discuss the changes you want to make.
Your consultation should help reassure you that
you're getting the procedure that's right for
you.
Be as prepared as possible for this first meeting.
Know your physician's qualifications before you
go. Also, write down any questions you may have
for the surgeon to be sure you get the information
you want.
Expect this first visit to take time. The doctor
will review your medical history, take photographs
and talk about the specific changes you want.
Many plastic surgeons now have sophisticated computer
software and imaging
equipment that can simulate surgery's effects,
showing what you might look like after surgery.
It's important that you and your plastic surgeon
establish a good rapport during your first meeting.
If your doctor has a clear picture of the results
you want, you've begun good and open communications.
In return, expect the doctor to be honest with
you about what surgery can and cannot do for you.
If your expectations are unrealistic, the doctor
should explain why.
There will be a $125 fee for your cosmetic consultation.
This amount will be applied toward the surgical
fee, if you decide to have the procedure.
After the consultation, you will have a clear
understanding of the overall costs of your surgery.
In addition to the physician's fee, there are
separate charges for the operating facilities
and anesthesia.
Do not count on your insurance to cover surgical
and other cosmetic surgery fees. If a part of
the procedure is medically necessary, it may be
covered, but the cosmetic portion won't be.
While you may not leave the office with a final
decision, you should have a clearer idea about
what's realistic for you. As you evaluate your
choices, ask yourself:
- Were all my questions answered?
- Do I feel confident about the physician's
abilities?
- Am I ready to go ahead with surgery?
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