Meeting the Plastic Surgeon and Staff

The first step of your cosmetic surgery plan should be meeting the plastic surgeon and the staff that you are planning to work with. This appointment is about more than just talking about the specific changes that you would like to see. The meeting is also your chance to get to know that people that will be working to change your body for the better. The goal of any patient should be to feel completely confident and comfortable with these people before the day of the operation.

Initial Consultation

The first appointment with the plastic surgeon and staff is usually an initial consultation. Here, the patient comes in to meet with the professionals and talk about what his or her expectations are for the operation and the overall outcome. Many offices offer this appointment for free or if there is a cost, it is often put towards the procedure once it is decided upon.

But, beyond talking about the surgery, it is important that the patient get a feel for the plastic surgeon, as well as his or her staff. The first impression can be very important. At this time, look to see how each and every person in the practice treats you. From the doctor to the receptionist, you want to feel like you are important to the practice and that you are going to be well taken care of. If you have any hesitation, consider meeting with another practitioner before making your final decision.

Communication

You want to be heard. While you are still there to get a professional opinion and you want to know what the plastic surgeon thinks will be best, the goal is to make your dreams a reality. As the conversation progresses, think about whether or not you feel heard. Is the doctor listening to what you are saying or talking over you? Do you feel like your concerns are being validated? There is so much to be discussed before the procedure, and you want to make sure that there is nothing that would hinder this.

On the other hand, you want to make sure that you understand what he or she is saying to you. Is the procedure being explained clearly? Do you feel like you have options? When you do have questions, are they being answered right away or do you sense some problems or issues? At the end of the appointment, ask yourself whether or not you feel like this is the right person to handle your transformation.

While the plastic surgeon is the central figure in the procedure, the other people in the office play a crucial role as well. Take the time to talk to the people that will be involved in your procedure in any way. Most patients can tell whether or not they are going to be comfortable the first time they come into the office for that first consultation.