How Long Does A Consultation Last?

A plastic surgery consultation is one of the most important aspects of any procedure. It’s a chance for you to discuss your needs with your surgeon, to decide whether a given treatment is right for you, and to find out more about what will be involved. It’s also a great opportunity for you to make sure that you’re choosing the right surgeon for the job. In this post we’ll look at the different components of a standard consultation and how long you can expect it to last.

Before the Consultation

Although you don’t need a fixed idea of what procedure you want before arriving at the consultation (part of its purpose is to help you figure this out), it is very important to know in advance what questions you should ask the surgeon. We recently discussed this in more detail here, but some of the most crucial questions include:

1. Is the plastic surgeon board-certified and does he/she have relevant experience?
2. Are you a good candidate for the given procedure? Is it the best solution for your concerns?
3. What will the surgery be like, and what results can you expect to see? What are the risks?
4. What should you do to prepare for the surgery and the subsequent recovery period?
5. How much will it cost?

Before committing to anything, make sure you have a plan for financing the procedure and for dealing with the recovery phase. This may involve using one of the financing options available for elective procedures, and taking time off work to ensure a rapid recovery.

During the Consultation

There’s no standard amount of time a consultation usually lasts. It may take as little as fifteen minutes or as long as two hours depending on your specific needs.

During the consultation, a good surgeon will listen carefully to your concerns and then suggest the best course of action. You’ll discuss the procedure itself, how much it will cost, as well as the associated recovery time. Your surgeon should also mention the type of anesthesia involved. Equally important is establishing that your motivations for getting the procedure and your expectations of the final result are reasonable and realistic. Once you’ve reached a decision about which course of action to pursue, your surgeon should explain what you need to do to prepare for the surgery and the recovery phase.

Always bear in mind that you have a choice about which plastic surgeon to work with. You don’t need to choose the first person you happen to have a consultation with. It’s generally a good idea to get at least two different professional opinions before committing to anything. Find someone experienced, trustworthy, approachable, and communicative.

Dr. Siegel is a facial plastic surgeon who prides himself on his considerable expertise and friendly manner. To find out whether cosmetic surgery is right for you, book a consultation today!