cosmetic appeal: finding the right surgeon
by Sarah Myers
what should I ask?
Don't be afraid to ask a surgeon about his/her qualifications, experience and specialities. You could check whether they give lectures or have written articles on their subject.
Think of all the questions you have about the procedure you're interested in and write them down. Make sure you're satisfied with the answers you've been given before the consultation is over.
Ask about everything that is going to be done to you and insist they be frank about any possible risks or side effects associated with the procedure. Don't forget to find out what sort of aftercare will you need.
what should I look out for?
When you are booking a consultation with a clinic, make sure you see the actual surgeon who will be operating on you. In some clinics, the first person to see any prospective patients is a 'counsellor'. If a counsellor is trying to sell you a surgical procedure, you should be suspicious, especially if they are trying to persuade you to have more surgery than you originally planned. Be sure about what you want to have done and stick to it.
Check the facilities in the clinic – are there doctors in the building all the time? What other operations do they carry out there? Make sure that the clinic you are in is the one where you will have your operation. Be wary if after you've had a consultation and paid a fee you are then taken somewhere else to have the surgery.
Bear in mind that prices do vary. To give an accurate price, a surgeon will need to have a full consultation with you and gather all the facts that may affect the length and complexity of the surgery. If someone is offering it quicker and cheaper, there is usually a reason.
When you've decided on a surgeon, leave plenty of time after the consultation before you book in for a procedure. Don't feel under any pressure to make a quick decision; a reputable clinic will encourage you to take some time to think it through.
(July 2004, resources updated Februrary 2005)
