Did you know that cosmetic surgery procedures like abdominoplasty and liposuction have increased by 63% since 2020? Since the pandemic, more and more people are turning to cosmetic surgery to improve their appearance and overall confidence.
If you’re thinking about seeing a cosmetic surgeon, it’s essential to know what questions to ask to understand more about the procedure you’re planning to get. You’ll also need to know what to look for in a cosmetic surgeon.
Keep reading this guide to learn six questions you need to ask at your first appointment.
1. Are You Board Certified?
It’s essential to research your cosmetic surgeon to ensure the level of care you’ll receive is up to specific standards. You’ll need to make sure the cosmetic surgeon you choose is board certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org).
You’ll notice that many doctors have this certification during your research. Physicians who are board certified have finished accredited education and training. They also keep their knowledge up to date through continuing education.
For cosmetic surgeons, there are different certifying boards. Another board to consider is the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS), which was established in 1986. This board aims to improve the quality of medical and surgical treatment available, but these surgeons limit their procedures to the face and neck region. Another very specialized board is found through the Oculofacial Society. These surgeons begin as eye surgeons, then go on to specialize in eyelid and facial cosmetic procedures.
You’ll also find that some cosmetic surgeons have multiple board certifications. So, do your research and check that the cosmetic surgeon you’re considering has these certifications.
2. How Much Experience Do You Have?
Next, you’ll need to get an idea of how much overall experience your cosmetic surgeon has had. This may seem obvious, but many people don’t ask this question. Either they don’t think of it or are too embarrassed to ask.
However, this is an important question, and a good cosmetic surgeon will have no problem answering it. To get a good idea of how many cosmetic surgeries they’ve done, you should get specific information like:
- How many times they’ve done the surgery you’re thinking of getting
- How many times have they performed that procedure within the past year
- What year did they first start performing the surgery
3. Do You Have Before and After Photos?
Before and after pictures are a great way to see how the final results will look after you’re healed. You’ll be better able to decide on specifics for surgeries like breast augmentations and facelifts.
It’s also an excellent way to get an idea of the quality of the surgeon’s work and how they perform certain procedures. Reputable cosmetic surgeons will show before and after photos of their previous patients who have given them permission to do so.
So, don’t be afraid to ask your surgeon for before and after photos of their work.
4. How Do I Prepare for the Procedure?
This is another one of those cosmetic surgery questions that people frequently forget to ask. If you’re meeting with a cosmetic surgeon to discuss a potential surgery in the near future, there are things you’ll need to do to prepare.
Before the surgery, you’ll need to eat a healthy diet and get daily exercise, and sleep so your body is in the best shape possible for surgery.
You’ll also need to stop all nicotine products before surgery. This is because nicotine reduces blood flow to your skin which can cause the tissue at the surgical site to lose blood flow causing the skin and tissue in that area to die. At the very least, nicotine adversely effects wound healing. So, stop smoking, vaping, chewing or the use of any nicotine patches or gum. This cannot be over emphasized.
Typically, you’ll also need to stop taking certain supplements or medications, like aspirin or ibuprofen, 2 to 3 weeks prior to surgery, as they can increase your risk for bleeding.
It’s also important to check with your surgeon about any prescription medications you’re taking especially any and all blood thinners like Coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Pradaxa, Plavix, just to name a few.
Finally, you’ll need someone to pick you up after surgery due to anesthesia.
It’s best to have an understanding of all of this before you schedule surgery, so make sure to get these details during your appointment.
5. What Types of Anesthesia Will Be Used?
It’s important to discuss anesthesia with your cosmetic surgeon. There are different types of anesthesia that can be used during your procedure, depending on the type of surgery you’re having done.
General anesthesia is commonly used during surgical procedures. General anesthesia is the strongest type of anesthesia and essentially puts you into a comatose state. When you have general anesthesia, you’ll be unaware of everything that’s happening during the procedure.
You can also have intravenous (IV) sedation, known as twilight sleep. With IV sedation, the medication goes directly in your vein to relax you, and then the surgical site is numbed with a Novocain type solution.
There is also local anesthetic (JUST the Novocain type solution) which numbs a small area of your body during a procedure. It’s usually used for minor procedures.
Make sure you determine which type of anesthesia your surgeon recommends and discuss the risks and benefits of each.
6. What Can I Expect During Recovery?
Remember, the recovery process is equally as important as the surgery you’ll be having. Depending on the type of procedure you have, recovery could take some time.
You’ll need to be able to make a plan prior to your surgery. So, make sure you find out things like how much time you’ll need to take off work and if you might need extra help around the house.
You’ll also want to ask about medications you’ll need to take and how much pain you can expect after the surgery. Get a good idea of the timeline of the healing process too, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Find an Experienced Cosmetic Surgeon
Now that you know what questions to ask a cosmetic surgeon, you’ll be ready for your first appointment.
If you’re looking for an experienced cosmetic surgeon, you can turn to Popp Cosmetic Surgery for all your cosmetic surgery needs. Dr. Jeffrey C. Popp is a certified cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon who’s been practicing since 1983. Dr. Popp will ensure you understand the procedure and provide you with the highest quality care possible.
We offer face, body, and breast procedures such as abdominoplasty, breast augmentations, facelifts, Botox, and more. We are happy to help you make positive changes in your life and are with you every step of the way.
Make sure you contact us today to schedule an appointment to get started!
