Questions
you should ask when Considering Cosmetic Surgery
Is
the doctor certified by the American Board of Plastic
Surgery?
When a doctor claims to be "Board Certified",
ask by which board. Only one, the American Board
of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), is recognized by the
American Board of Medical Specialties ( ABMS) to
certify doctors in the specialty of plastic surgery.
Does
the Doctor have hospital privileges?
Some surgical procedures can safely be performed
in the doctor's office or other ambulatory surgical
facility. However, it is important to find out if
the doctor has operating privileges in an accredited
hospital for the same procedure you would like to
have performed. Before granting operating privileges,
hospital review committees evaluate a surgeon's
training and competency for specific procedures.
If the doctor does not have hospital privileges
to perform your procedure, look for another surgeon.
What
experience does the doctor have in performing this
procedure?
Ask what training has been completed, as well as
how often he or she performs the procedure. Ask
to see original photos ( before and after ) of patients
who have given their permission for their photos
to be shown to you.
What
are the possible risks?
There are risks with any surgical procedure. Find
out what they are, how often they occur, and how
they will be handled if they do occur. If the doctor
does not openly discuss the risks or says that there
are no risks, seek another opinion.
What
is the expected recovery for the procedure?
Important points to discuss are the postoperative
restrictions on activity and typical time periods
for resuming work and social activities.
How
much will the surgery cost?
Cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance, and
payment usually is required in advance. Costs include
the surgeon's fee and fees for the hospital and
anesthesia. Don't be tempted to "bargain shop."
The training and experience of your surgeon are
the most important factors in the success of your
surgery. Do not compromise.
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