Ask For Recommendations
In order to narrow down the field, it helps to ask your friends and acquaintances for recommendations. If someone had a good experience, they’re likely to recommend their cosmetic surgeon. Finding out what type of procedure they had done might be useful; if you’re planning on having rhinoplasty and your acquaintance had liposuction, the recommendation might not be as relevant as one from someone else had facial surgery done. Still, it’s a great starting point. Make a list of doctors who are recommended to you… and just as importantly, make a list of any who are expressly not recommended!
Do Your Research
Before spending the time to schedule a consultation appointment, find out whether the doctors you’re considering are certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and/or the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You can contact the American Board of Medical Specialties to find out the status of any physician you’re considering.
You can also look up the surgeon’s record at the Georgia Medical Board. This will assure you that your physician is currently licensed to practice in Georgia, and you can find any open cases or settlements on his or her record.
Make a Consultation Appointment
Any Atlantic plastic surgeon should be happy to meet you and answer your questions. Schedule a consultation appointment to meet the surgeon. During your call, find out whether the doctor takes your insurance and at which hospital(s) he or she has privileges.
Once you’re in the office, evaluate how you feel about the physician’s bedside manner. Ask questions about how many times he or she has performed the procedure that you would like to have done. Look carefully at the before and after photos that are provided. Ask if the doctor can provide several patient references. Feel free to ask questions about the type of sedation used, the medications you will need to take afterward and what to expect during the recovery process.
It’s vital that you feel comfortable with your cosmetic surgeon. If you are looking for an Atlanta plastic surgeon, please give our office a call to schedule an appointment with one of our excellent doctors. We’d love the chance to get to meet you and find out how we can help you.