A TRUSTED RESOURCE FOR PLASTIC SURGERY
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A CONSULTATION
The following tips will help prepare you to make sure your consultation experience is as productive and successful as possible.
1
RESEARCH YOUR PROCEDURE
It is very helpful to learn as much as you can about your procedure before the consultation. Time may be limited, and it will be more productive to review the more complex aspects of your procedure instead of the basic background information. It is important to research procedures using trusted sources of good information. Unfortunately, the internet is filled with websites written by non-professionals who provide confusing and incorrect advice. The following websites have been created by medical professionals and are filled with accurate and up to date information about plastic surgery procedures that you can trust:
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Los Angeles Society of Plastic Surgeons (LASPS)
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The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
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The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
2
MAKE SURE THE SURGEON IS BOARD CERTIFIED SPECIFICALLY IN PLASTIC SURGERY
This is extremely important. There are many doctors who advertise as "Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeons" but have no training in Plastic Surgery. Make sure the surgeon you are meeting with is Board Certified and specifically in Plastic Surgery. To learn more, visit our page on "How to Find a Surgeon."
3
CALL THE OFFICE
Once you have selected the surgeon, or surgeons, you are interested in meeting with, call the office to schedule an appointment. Make sure the staff is helpful and courteous. Ask about pricing and scheduling to make sure that the surgeon's fee and operative schedule match your goals. As you plan for your appointment, find out about the location and the availability of parking. Some offices are located in busy and congested commercial areas. Knowing traffic patterns and parking locations will make the day of your consultation much less stressful.
4
ARRIVE EARLY
Plan on arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Traffic in Los Angeles can be unpredictable and parking can be difficult. Giving yourself this extra cushion of time will ensure you arrive on schedule. Also, you will likely need to fill out paperwork once you do arrive to the office. Filling this out before you meet with the surgeon will guaranteee that you get the maximum amount of time for your consultation, instead of wasting it filling out forms.
Following these helpful tips with make sure you are as prepared as possible. Researching the procedure, making sure the surgeon in Board Certified in Plastic Surgery, calling the office in advance and arrving early will ensure you have a great consultation experience.