Meeting your surgeon

When you've narrowed your choice of surgeons, schedule a consultation — or multiple consultations with different surgeons. The surgeon will evaluate the part of your body that you want to have treated, and you'll share your medical history, list any medications you're taking, and discuss your desires and expectations. During the initial consultation, ask the surgeon:

• Am I a good candidate for this procedure? Why or why not?
• Are there treatments other than surgery that might work just as well or better for me?
• How many times have you done this procedure? What were the results?
• Can you share before and after photos or diagrams to help me understand the procedure and the expected results?
• Can the desired effect be accomplished in one procedure, or do you anticipate multiple procedures?
• What are the surgical options? What are the pros and cons for each?
• Will the results be permanent?
• What type of anesthetic will be used? How will it affect me?
• Will I be hospitalized? If so, for how long?
• What are the possible complications?
• How will my progress be monitored after surgery? What follow-up care will I need? How long of a recovery period can I expect?
• How much will the procedure cost?

The closer you work with your surgeon to establish specific, measurable and achievable goals before surgery, the more likely you are to be satisfied with the results.

Remember, though, even if you've done your homework and found a surgeon you like at a price you can afford — the decision to pursue cosmetic surgery is yours and yours alone. Make sure you're comfortable with the surgeon and committed to your treatment choices.