What to Expect During Your Plastic Surgery Consultation
For most people, the first step in considering cosmetic surgery begins with the internet. Credible organizations like American Society of Plastic Surgeons and blogs by board-certified plastic surgeons like this one offer expert information to steer you in the right direction.
But no matter how much research you do, nothing compares to having an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. One who listens to you and takes the time to understand your specific needs. A female plastic surgeon with the experience to provide options that are right for you.
Sometimes this next step of setting up a consultation can seem intimidating or make you uncomfortable. Please don’t feel that way! As I tell all my patients, this is a judgment-free zone. Today, let’s remove that stressor by telling you what to expect during your plastic surgery consultation and how to make sure you are prepared for it.
What do we discuss during your plastic surgery consultation?
Depending on the procedure, a plastic surgery consultation at Tannan Plastic Surgery typically lasts around an hour. We meet in my office to talk about your frustrations and goals. Next, we discuss plastic surgery options that can best meet those needs. Whether we talk about a full Mommy Makeover, Botox and fillers, Breast Enhancement, Liposuction, or Skin Care, we create a safe and non-judgmental environment. You can be honest in sharing your personal desires while expecting honest feedback.
Next, we review the pros and cons of your best cosmetic surgery options. We discuss the procedure in detail. I like to do this by breaking down complex anatomy using simple sketches and samples. For example, we might draw the body and show how skin removal and lipo and diastasis recti repair fundamentally restore your internal anatomy during a Tummy Tuck. Or we might try bras with various sized breast implants so you know how the final results might feel. How heavy is that 300 cc implant you have seen pictures of on the internet? We will look through before-and-after photos in my office gallery to help you visualize the possibilities. Ultimately, our goal is to empower you to make a choice that is the best fit for you, living your life. While we discuss surgery, we will also talk about typical recovery time from plastic surgery to help you make plans.
Our plastic surgery consultation is also a great time to tour the on-site surgical suite. We have a procedure room for awake procedures like cyst removals, chemical peels, etc. In our same facility we have an AAAASF-accredited operating room for surgical procedures. At the end of the consult you will meet with our patient care coordinator. She will give you a customized quote and discuss the complete cosmetic procedure cost and financing options.
How can you prepare for your plastic surgery consultation?
A successful plastic surgery consultation is one where you convey to me your specific concerns and goals, and where I explain to you what can and cannot be done safely, and how we go about doing it. Don’t be shy about sharing your concerns. Bring pictures that help us see the final results that you are hoping to achieve. Point out things in my photo gallery that you like and want to see on your own physique. Be honest about your needs and long term goals.
I will ask you what you do for work – whether it is outside of or inside the home. I will ask how old your kids are and if they still like to be held. Can they get into their carseat on their own or do you still lift them up? All these things help us plan together whether you would want to recruit help in that critical early period immediately after a tummy tuck or breast augmentation with a breast lift.
Check out our Resources beforehand as well, like the cost calculator and recovery calculator. These help you prepare more targeted questions for the consultation.
Always remember that the best plastic surgeon is the one with whom you can establish an open and honest connection. So be bold and make sure you ask her all the questions you need answered to know you can trust her. This list of questions suggested by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons is a great place to start.
Don’t delay any longer – let’s get started!
There is nothing to be afraid about in taking the next step. Stop waiting to schedule your one-on-one plastic surgery consultation. Use our Contact Form or call us at (919) 797-0996. For me, the practice and art of plastic surgery is a privilege and a passion. My favorite moment is the reveal, when we take the dressings off in front of the mirror together, and I see your face. Some women break into wide smiles, some cry tears of joy, and others just have this complete and utterly surprised look. It is a special bond, that relationship between plastic surgeon and patient. Come see why my patients have trusted me to help them on this journey we call life.
