Tips on preparing and key questions to feel confident and ready!
At Edina Plastic Surgery, we understand that scheduling a consultation with one of our surgeons is a big step for most people. Even if you have spent months researching the procedure you’re interested in, discussing it face-to-face with a real person can feel intimidating.
Sharing concerns about our appearance can make us feel vulnerable and exposed. The surest way to feel empowered is to get the education and information you need from a qualified surgeon who can provide solutions.
Here’s what to expect at your upcoming plastic surgery consultation and tips on how to prepare so you can feel confident and excited about meeting with one of our surgeons!
Why is a consultation so important?
Plastic surgery is a partnership between you and your surgeon. A surgeon doesn’t work ON you; he or she works WITH you. Your initial consultation allows your surgeon to understand your concerns, specific needs, and expectations. This appointment is a platform for you to share your goals for your appearance. During your consultation, you’ll discover if this is the right surgeon and procedure for you and gain the information you need to make the best decision for yourself.
Comfort builds confidence! A consultation allows time to meet additional staff members at a clinic, tour the facility, and the opportunity to view many before and after pictures of REAL patients who have undergone the surgery that interests you. You’ll also be presented with payment options for surgery and can discuss which method is best for your lifestyle. Be proactive and make sure that every possible question you have about your surgeon and surgery gets answered!
How do I prepare for my consultation?
A quick internet search about the procedure you’re interested in is not the best way to prepare for your consultation. Spend a few hours researching your surgery on both your surgeon’s website and other sites like the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, so you have a base level knowledge of your procedure. Edina Plastic Surgery has an entire gallery of REAL patient before and after pictures that are linked to each of the surgeries we perform. Compile a list of questions and concerns to discuss with your surgeon.
Be able to show and articulate what you want.
The better your surgeon understands your specific goals for your appearance, the better your surgical outcome will be. That means you need to be able to communicate hopes and expectations from surgery. Before your consultation, spend 15 minutes looking at yourself in front of a mirror. Take notes on what you like and don’t like about your body or face. Be specific. Next, search the internet or find pictures in magazines that illustrate the appearance you’re aspiring to have through surgery. Bring these notes and images with you to your consultation. These will give your surgeon a clearer picture of both your areas of concern and your aesthetic ideal. This step will also help set realistic expectations for surgery.
Some practices, like Edina Plastic Surgery, actually allow you to preview your surgical results with imaging software. Our Vectra 3D Camera constructs digital pictures of how you may look after such procedures as breast augmentation and rhinoplasty.
Have an open mind and be receptive.
You may have had your heart and mindset on a particular surgery for months – even years. It can be difficult to hear your surgeon recommend an additional surgery to achieve the results you’re expecting, or a different surgery altogether. It’s essential to keep an open mind. Some results may not be attainable because of your medical background or body type. Remember that your surgeon is the expert in this field and wants to set you up for success and fulfill your hopes for your appearance. He or she will be very honest with their recommendations because they want to ensure your happiness with your results and achieve the best surgical outcome.
The BEST last question to ask at your consultation.
You may arrive at your consultation with a laundry list of questions. That is fantastic! Your surgeon or the clinic staff will address each question by the end of your visit. To bring everything full circle at the end of your conversation with your surgeon, a great question to ask is:
“Is there anything I haven’t asked you about that you think I should know?”
This simple question allows you and your surgeon to reflect on everything that was discussed during your consultation and identify anything that may have been left out. If you think of more questions in the hours and days that follow your consultation, be sure to reach out to either your surgeon or the clinic staff. In the end, it is EVERYONE’S goal to have you feeling educated and excited about your decision to elevate your confidence and enhance your life with plastic surgery!
Are you ready to schedule a consultation with an Edina Plastic Surgery surgeon? If you wish to schedule a complimentary, in-person consultation, call (612) 688-3135.
