Choosing to make changes to your body is an important decision. While some individuals have been thinking about cosmetic surgery for many years, others may have only recently decided to take the next step. However, no matter where you are in the process, eventually you will need to pick a plastic surgeon.
There are several critical aspects you must consider when choosing your tummy tuck surgeon. Unfortunately for many, the financial cost becomes main consideration. However, because this is such an important decision to your appearance, confidence and overall health, there are several others areas that you should also consider before making this decision.
Make sure you are working with a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certification is a MUST and is easy to find online. Just search for the plastic surgeon's name on https://find.plasticsurgery.org/. Look at their educational background, any surgical specializations or additional certifications. This allows you to search for board certified plastic surgeons in your area and gain some confidence in their experience and qualifications. However, this is not the only step.
You wouldn’t want to buy a car without making sure it looks like it should and meets your standards. Same goes for your cosmetic plastic surgeon! And your surgeon should WANT you to look at their work. This is so you have an idea what realistic results can be achieved, and you can see the value of their work. It’s important to assess their results, AND to ask questions about the results. Keep in mind, that before and after photos are essentially a plastic surgeon’s portfolio and likely display some of their best work. Red Flags would be no before or after photos, obviously manipulated photos, or resistance about discussing the results.
It’s okay to ask questions! Not all surgeons will follow the same surgical procedures. Ask about their recommended techniques and WHY they believe this is best to achieve your aesthetic goals. Choose a surgeon that not only explains each approach, but also discusses what he/she thinks is best for your body. This can be done tactfully, and should not elicit push-back from the surgeon.
Not necessarily the first or most important part of your process, but reviews still matter! It’s okay to tell the surgeon you read the reviews; it provides an opportunity to start a conversation about the surgeon's style of care. Is it like a dictatorship or a mutually respectful relationship. Don’t let it completely make your decision for you, but pay attention to why patients seem happy or unhappy with their experience. Remember that every surgeon / patient and organizations have their "bad days". So a single bad review here or there should be taken in context of their other reviews.
You've narrowed down your search. Now you need to book and go through with your consultation. Pay attention to the surgeon's beside manner. If they are cold and rushed before surgery, how might they behave after surgery, or (heaven forbid) there is a surgical complication. Don’t be afraid to ask question about any aspect of the surgery or, perhaps equally important, the postoperative instructions/care. Make it a goal to leave the office with a better understanding of how the staff and physician run the office. Gut reactions matter here. Creating a positive, open relationship with your physician is important in achieving your cosmetic goals. Here are some examples of helpful questions to ask your potential surgeon:
Wow... That seems kind of intimidating. But, relax! It should be a fun and exciting process at the same time. Good luck!
