A recent study published in 2008 by the American Society of plastic surgeons has predicted that by the year 2015 more than 55 million plastic surgeries will be performed yearly. This is wonderful news for the Los Angeles plastic surgery industry. However, new patients should now more than ever be thorough in their due diligence when selecting a plastic surgeon. During the consultation process patients discussing potential surgical and nonsurgical procedures with a prospective surgeon would be well advised to thoroughly evaluate answers to questions, general attitude and communication skills of medical staff, as well as the experience of the surgeon.
A Los Angeles plastic surgeon should have a patient referral list available, and be willing to answer extensive questions about their years in practice, prior medical specialties, and board certification. Additionally, potential surgeons should be honest and forthcoming about any disciplinary actions taken against them by the state medical board. Likewise, frank discussions about their malpractice insurance in any malpractice lawsuits should be a part of the initial consultation process. If the surgeon has had any hospital privileges suspended or revoked this should also be disclosed. Regardless of the answers the surgeon provides to these questions, part of your due diligence is to verify their answers.
In addition to basic background information about the surgeon’s practice and any negative issues on their record, there are other questions of equal importance that should be on your list. Other questions to ask prior to plastic surgery Los Angeles, include specific procedures they prefer to perform, how many times they have performed the specific surgery you are considering, as well as any revisions to their own work they have performed. You may also want to ask how many of these revisions were due to poor outcomes versus how many were the result of patient decisions. These questions serve to ensure you find the best surgeon for your particular procedure.
In addition to questions specific to the plastic surgeon in Los Angeles with whom you’re consulting, you should also ask questions relative to your specific situation. These might include whether you are a good candidate for the surgery, potential complications, and steps to ease pain or discomfort.
Additionally, questions regarding anesthesia such as how long it will be under, the type of anesthesia, and who will administer it should also be on your list. While these suggestions for questions cover a broad range of topics, you should include any other questions that might help you make your final decision.