Prepping for Plastic Surgery: How to Research and What to Ask

Knowledge is key to making wise health choices, including any cosmetic or plastic surgery you may be considering. It's important to do your homework and research the procedure, your surgeon and other factors before making any final decisions about whether or not a procedure is right for you. Take a look at these smart practices and important questions that will help to inform your research.

How to Choose the Right Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon who's qualified to perform your type of cosmetic procedure. Some popular procedures include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Breast augmentation
• Breast lift
• Breast reduction
• Facelift
• Tummy Tuck
• Liposuction
• Mommy Makeover
• Rhinoplasty

Research the doctor's education, experience, and reputation, and ask for references. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is a helpful resource for finding a board certified doctor near you.¹

When considering plastic surgery it's important to understand the difference between plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons so you can determine which surgeon is right for your procedure. According to the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), “plastic surgery deals with the repair, reconstruction, or replacement of physical defects of form or function involving the skin, musculoskeletal system, craniomaxillofacial structures, hand, extremities, breast and trunk, external genitalia or cosmetic enhancement of these areas of the body. Cosmetic surgery is an essential component of plastic surgery."²

It's important to note that any licensed physician, from a dentist to a dermatologist, may be able to legally perform cosmetic surgery or procedures, regardless of how they received cosmetic surgery training. It's extremely important, therefore, to do your research when choosing a surgeon.

Make Sure You Understand the Cosmetic Procedure

It's essential to research your surgical procedure with reputable resources and knowing the most common plastic surgery procedures can inform your research and help guide your decision making. Keep a running list of questions to bring to your cosmetic surgery consultation.

Be Prepared for Your Plastic Surgery Consultation: 10 Questions to Ask

Consider the following list of questions to ask your surgeon⁴ during your consultation:

1. Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
2. How many times have you performed this procedure?
3. What board certifications do you hold?
4. Where will the surgery take place?
5. Is the surgical facility accredited?
6. Do you have hospital privileges? If so, where?
7. Who will perform anesthesia and what are their qualifications?
8. What are the credentials of your surgical staff?
9. What protocols are in place should an emergency occur?
10. What are my options if I'm dissatisfied with the outcome of my surgery?

Pay attention to how you feel during your consultation. Are your questions answered thoroughly? Is the information (including fees) transparent? And most importantly, do you feel confident moving ahead with the surgery?

During your consultation, you'll also discuss your aesthetic goals and the cosmetic procedure(s) you're interested in with the plastic surgeon. This is the time to evaluate the doctor to be sure they are the best match for you. Bring your list of questions and come prepared to take notes. During your consultation, your doctor should review the following checklist with you³:

• Options to achieve your aesthetic goals
• Review your health history
• Describe the procedure step-by-step
• Explain expected results including possible risks and side effects
• Explain anesthesia and recovery options

How to Finance Plastic Surgery

Discuss all fees associated with your procedure at your consultation to get a complete picture of what the surgery will cost. For example, will there be a separate bill from the anesthesiologist? Are there any other costs to expect?

If you need to finance the cost of your procedure, ask your doctor to go over your options. Schedule a separate appointment if necessary to avoid being overwhelmed with information.

Cosmetic surgeons may require a downpayment when you schedule your procedure, and payment in full prior to your surgery. Make sure you understand your surgeon's billing and payment policies upfront.

It's a good idea to research average pricing in your area for the cosmetic procedure you're interested in, to compare costs.

Stay Informed About Cosmetic Surgery

Researching cosmetic surgery procedures, selecting a qualified plastic surgeon, and asking questions are your first steps to getting beautiful results from any aesthetic procedure. Read more about the latest cosmetic procedure and plastic surgery trends to stay informed.

You can use the CareCredit credit card to pay for cosmetic services, including surgical and minimally-invasive procedures to help you look and feel your best.* Use the Acceptance Locator or download the CareCredit Mobile App to find a nearby provider who accepts the CareCredit credit card.

Author Bio

Anne-Marie Kennedy is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience covering health and wellness, personal finance and real estate/investing.