VWB Blog Did you know that there are over 9,540 plastic surgeons currently employed in the United States? When it comes to plastic surgery, you want someone who’s an expert.
Choosing the wrong cosmetic surgeon can lead to missed diagnosis, ineffectiveness, or even serious health issues. Of course, you want to avoid these issues as much as possible. Most of all, you want to make sure you get the treatment you need.
So how can you spot a quality cosmetic surgeon when searching for one? Here, we’ll cover some common errors in picking cosmetic surgeons and how to steer clear of them.
1. Not Checking References
No one should take picking a cosmetic surgeon lightly, yet many people do not take the time to properly research to ensure they get the best doctor for them. One easy way to narrow the search is to speak with your doctor and ask for references.
Contact at least three of the surgeon’s former patients for feedback on their experience. Ask them detailed questions about their experience with the doctor and how happy they are with the results.
Failing to check references can prove costly. Not only can a surgeon lacking skill cause harm, but the corrective surgery to fix the original mistake costs you twice.
2. Choosing the Cheapest Surgeon
When researching surgeons, it’s natural for patients to be drawn to the cheaper options. However, selecting a surgeon based on price alone can have serious consequences. A cheaper surgeon may be using illegitimate techniques or have an inadequate amount of experience.
For this reason, people should always research and compare the fees across different surgeons. It is essential to do your research and pick a professional who has an excellent track record and works within your budget. Make sure the procedure and costs are thoroughly explained before making a decision.
3. Failing to Consider the Clinics Overall Safety Record
Many patients make the mistake of not researching the facility before making an appointment. This can lead to a host of surgical errors and even life-threatening complications.
To avoid this mistake, patients should ensure that the clinic follows safety protocols and takes all potential risks into account. Investigate whether any malpractice or disciplinary actions have been taken against the surgeon.
Additionally, patients should visit the clinic in person to ensure that the facility is professional and well-maintained. Ask questions about specifics such as sterilization protocols and post-operative treatments. It is essential to avoid clinics with multiple lawsuits or bad reviews concerning safety errors like this can be very costly.
4. Picking a Surgeon Without Credentials
Failing to check credentials when picking a cosmetic surgeon can put a patient in serious danger. A medical professional who claims to have expertise in cosmetic procedures should have an accredited medical school education. The surgeon should also have certification from a relevant professional board.
It is also recommended to look into their background and licenses to make sure that they have the proper training, skills, and experience. If you are looking for a master BOTOX injector, for example, you should research the surgeon’s history and always ask for proof of his or her credentials. A board-certified cosmetic surgeon will be willing to answer your questions and put your mind at ease.
5. Not Checking With Your Medical Insurance Provider
It is important to check with your medical insurance provider to ensure that the cosmetic surgeon is included in their network. Many cosmetic procedures require preauthorization from your insurance company before they can be covered. If you choose a cosmetic surgeon who is not in-network with your insurance, you may be held accountable for the entire fee and be responsible for more expensive out-of-network costs.
To prevent these costly mistakes, take the time to call your insurance provider and ask if the cosmetic surgeon you are considering is included in their network and if it will be covered by your insurance. You can also look up your insurance plan documents online to look for covered procedures. Doing your research can save you time and money in the end.
6. Not Asking to See Before and After Photos
It’s imperative not to overlook the importance of looking at before and after photos of prior surgeries. This can provide insight into a surgeon’s specific expertise and level of skill in performing the type of cosmetic surgery procedure desired. It’s important to ensure that the surgeon’s results are pleasing and that there are no signs of complications.
Plastic surgeons should be willing to show you photos of their work and explain the results they achieved. This is the best way to ensure the progress made matches your own aesthetic goals. If a cosmetic surgeon refuses to show you their before and after photos, this is a sure sign that something is wrong, and it’s best to find another doctor.
7. Not Taking the Surgeons Bedside Manner Into Account
When considering any type of cosmetic surgery, one of the most important factors to take into account is the surgeon’s bedside manner. Most of the time, if a surgeon has a bad bedside manner, chances are they are not the right surgeon to perform the procedure.
It can be easy to overlook this important factor as everyone has different bedside manner preferences. However, choosing a surgeon with a cold, impersonal attitude can make the process of surgery unbearable.
Taking into account a surgeon’s bedside manner allows you to assess the compatibility between yourself and the surgeon. This makes for a smoother, more comfortable cosmetic surgery experience overall.
Errors in Picking Cosmetic Surgeons
Cosmetic surgeons play an important role in surgeries, so it’s essential to pick one that will best suit your needs. Researching, screening, and finding references are some of the key ways one can avoid common errors in picking cosmetic surgeons.
Ultimately, it’s the patient’s responsibility to make sure they trust and are comfortable with their surgeon prior to the procedure. Since these surgeries are permanent, it’s crucial to select a qualified, experienced surgeon who will leave you with the perfect results.
If you liked these tips, check out our other blog posts. Not only are they informative, but they’ll keep your mind focused in these stressful times.