What to Ask During a Plastic Surgery Consultation
A short list of the questions that separate a considered plan from a sales pitch.
Bring a written list — nerves make good questions vanish. The essentials cover training, the operation itself, the recovery, and the plan for anything that does not go smoothly.
On training: 'Are you registered with the HPCSA as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon? How often do you perform this specific procedure?' On the operation: 'Which technique do you plan for me, and why that one? How long will I be under anaesthetic? Where will the incisions sit?' On recovery: 'What does week one look like? When can I drive, work, exercise? What painkillers will I need?'
On complications: 'What are the specific risks for me? What is your revision rate for this procedure, and who pays if a revision is needed? Who do I contact after hours in the first two weeks?'
On fit: 'Am I a good candidate for what I want, or would you advise against it?' A surgeon willing to talk you out of an operation is usually the one worth going back to.
Educational content only. Results vary between individuals and all surgery carries risk. Every plan begins with an unhurried consultation and an examination — never a quote over the phone.