You may feel intimidated by the idea of screening doctors during your consultation appointments. With all the research, varying information, the different techniques to consider and the technical jargon, it's no wonder that this process can be confusing at times.

We are here to help you sort it all out, to make sure that you are clear about the facts before you proceed with your procedure, so that you can make an educated decision

• Finding Doctor Right - Your “Doctor Right” will fit your individual needs and you will feel comfortable speaking to him or her. Guidance to help you find the doctor who specializes in the specific areas or procedures you are considering. How to mentally prepare for your consultation appointment and things to consider during your consultation appointments.
  
• What to Expect During Your Consultation Appointment
  
• Some Important Questions to Ask During Your Consultation Appointment
  
• Questions to Help you Decide if Aesthetic Surgery is Right for You
  
• Pre-Operative Questions and Concerns
  
• Post-Operative Questions & Concerns

Taking your next Step

• Credentials: Your Cosmetic Surgery - Ask the Right Questions
  
• Cosmetic surgery can be a beautiful choice
  
• Your Cosmetic Surgery Consultation
• In the Hands of a Qualified Surgeon
  
  

Finding “Doctor Right”

Your “Doctor Right” will fit your individual needs and you will feel comfortable speaking with that doctor. The Helen Elliott Team will help you find the doctor who specializes in the specific areas or procedures you are considering. This section explains how to mentally prepare for your consultation appointment, also, some things to consider during your consultation appointment.

If you search for plastic surgeons, you will generally find a huge list of many different doctors, medical centers and private practices. Any method you choose, be it an internet search engine, a telephone directory, or a visit to one of the many Plastic Surgery Medical Board websites (such as, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery ASAPS, the American Board of Medical Specialties ABMS or, the American Board of Plastic Surgery ABPS) all are wonderful sources of plastic surgeons and information. However, when searching for doctors, your search will inevitably lead you to a long list of doctors and addresses, which sometimes can lead to frustration. We feel that everyone has his or her “Doctor Right”, it just takes the proper guidance to find a doctor that is right for you. It would be our pleasure to offer our guidance and assist you in finding your “Doctor Right”.

Many creditable information sources will recommend getting many different opinions before deciding to have your procedure performed. Getting a second, or even a third and fourth opinion is wonderful advice, yet after seeing many different doctors, those considering a plastic surgery procedure sometimes have even more questions and a harder decision. A common question is,

What to Expect During Your Consultation Appointment

Your consultation appointment will benefit you in many ways. The doctor will perform a thorough evaluation of you, which is a good way to see how comfortable you feel with the surgeon, as compatibility is an important factor. The second purpose of your consultation is to make sure that you have realistic expectations and a good understanding about the risks and complications associated with that particular procedure.

You want to feel comfortable with your surgeon. You also want to ask many questions, to determine whether the surgeon has the professional medical knowledge, experience and compatibility that you seek. Be prepared to ask questions about the details surrounding the procedure you are contemplating. Never feel foolish asking about the doctor’s qualifications and licenses. The surgeon will also be considering you, by evaluating your physical condition and your expectations, to see if you are a good candidate for surgery.

Your Personal Consultation Checklist

Some Important Questions to Ask During Your Consultation Appointment

Please click here For the Printable Version of Your Personal Consultation Checklist

How to Determine if Aesthetic Surgery is Right for You:

• How is the procedure performed?
  
• Are there any reasons why I am not a good candidate for this procedure? If so, are there any alternative procedures?
  
• How often does the surgeon perform the procedure that I want? (A few times a month is not enough.)
  
• May I see before and after pictures? (Be aware that these can be touched up.)
  
• Ask to meet or speak with a patient whom the doctor has recently performed the same procedure on.
  

Pre-Operative Questions and Concerns

• What are the specific risks or complications associated with the procedure?
  
• Will my procedure be an in or out patient procedure?
  
• What type of anesthesia will be used? (General or Local)
  
• How long will the surgery take?
  
• What is the refund policy in case I change my mind in regards to having surgery?
  
• What is the total cost of my procedure including hospital fees and other extras?
  
• Is there medical insurance coverage for this procedure?
  
• In case something should go wrong, can the surgeon provide corrective secondary procedures at no-charge, or will he reduce his fee?
  
• Last but not least, can I afford this procedure? (The cost of the procedure is certainly something to consider, however, the cost should not be the determining factor when choosing your surgeon.)
  
  

Post-Operative Questions & Concerns:

• What is my realistic recovery timetable?
  
• Will there be scaring and if so, to what degree?
  
• What things do I need to have on hand while I am recovering?
  
• How much pain will I have?
  
• How long is the recovery period?
  
• What can I expect during my recovery period?
  
• Can I travel?
  
• When can I return to full normal activities, including exercise?
  
• What is the duration of time that I should anticipate my complete healing?
  

The doctor may ask about your complete medical history
You should be prepared with as much info as possible about your complete medical history. This includes:

• Genetics, any medical complications that run in your family
  
• Any allergies you may have
  
• Any medications you are on, including birth control pills, vitamins, prescriptions and any other type medications.
  
  

Remember that trusting and feeling comfortable with your surgeon is a very important factor in finding “Doctor Right”. It can be beneficial to trust your instincts and gut feelings. Also, make sure that you understand everything your surgeon has told you. Once you find that surgeon who meets your personal criteria, you have found your “Doctor Right” and then you can comfortably make your final decision. The more informed you are, the more positive your experience will be.

For further assistance, call the Helen Elliott Team today, toll-free at, (888) 433-9091. For your No-Charge Consultation Appointment.

The following information and Guidelines are from the ASAPS Website. 2100-member American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) is the only plastic surgery organization devoted entirely to the advancement of cosmetic surgery. ASAPS is recognized throughout the world as the authoritative source for cosmetic surgery information, education and statistics. U.S. and Canadian members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Credentials: Your Cosmetic Surgery - Ask the Right Questions

From: The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) NEW YORK, NY (April 10, 2003)

You may want to discuss the following points before scheduling your consultation:

Ask if the doctor is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). ASAPS membership ensures that the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (see next bullet) and has also met other special requirements for cosmetic surgery experience and continuing education.

Ask if the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). When a doctor claims to be "board certified," ask by which board. Only one, the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) to certify doctors in the specialty of plastic surgery.

Ask about the doctor's hospital privileges. Some surgical procedures can safely be performed in the doctor's office or other ambulatory surgical facility. However, it is important to find out if the doctor has operating privileges in an accredited hospital for the same procedure you would like to have performed. Before granting operating privileges, hospital review committees evaluate a surgeon's training and competency for specific procedures. If the doctor does not have hospital privileges to perform your procedure, look for another surgeon.

If the doctor operates in an ambulatory or office-based facility, ask if the facility is accredited. Although most states do not currently require ambulatory or office-based facilities to be accredited, voluntary application can be made to an accrediting body, such as the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). Facilities accredited by AAAASF have met strict requirements for all aspects of operation, and such accreditation denotes a high standard of care. As of July 2002, ASAPS members performing plastic surgery in which anesthesia (other than local anesthesia and/or minimal tranquilization) is used must operate in a facility that meets at least one of the following criteria: accredited by a national or state-recognized accrediting organization; state-licensed; or Medicare-certified.

During your consultation, the following questions can be discussed with the surgeon:

• What experience does the doctor have in performing this procedure? Ask what training has been completed, especially in new techniques, as well as how often he or she performs the procedure. Ask to see certificates of training.
  
• What are the possible risks? There are risks with any surgical procedure. Find out what they are, how often they occur, and how they will be handled if they do occur. If the doctor does not openly discuss the risks or says that there are no risks, seek another opinion.
  
• What is the expected recovery for the procedure? Important points to discuss are postoperative restrictions on activity and typical time periods for resuming work and social activities.
  
• What is the doctor's policy on surgical revisions? A small percentage of cases may require surgical revisions to achieve the desired result. Find out about any costs for which you may be responsible.
  
• How much will the surgery cost? Cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance, and payment usually is required in advance. Costs include the surgeon's fee and fees for the surgical facility and anesthesia. Other possible costs are the preoperative physical and blood work, medications, surgical garments, and private-duty nursing. While it is tempting to "bargain shop", or compromise, the training and experience of your surgeon are the most important factors in the success of your surgery. Do not compromise.
  

The 2100-member American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) is the only plastic surgery organization devoted entirely to the advancement of cosmetic surgery. ASAPS is recognized throughout the world as the authoritative source for cosmetic surgery information, education and statistics. U.S. and Canadian members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Taking your next Step

Assuming that you have identified a specific feature, or features, of your face or body that you would like to improve, and you have a strong personal desire to make a change, then you may be an ideal candidate for cosmetic surgery. Now you’re ready to take the next step toward enhancing your appearance with cosmetic surgery.

Here are some things you should know:

• Having realistic expectations about cosmetic surgery increases the likelihood that you will be happy with the results.
  No surgeon can offer risk-free surgery or guarantee a perfect result.
  
• A qualified surgeon will consider not only your physical suitability but also psychological factors such as emotional maturity and motivation for surgery.
  
• As a rule, cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance. Fees generally are paid prior to your surgical date, or financing is arranged in advance.
  
• The most qualified surgeon may not be the most, or the least, expensive. Bargain-shopping for cosmetic surgery is never a good idea.
  
• You may be asked to avoid smoking, aspirin and certain other medications before and immediately after surgery.
  
• Following surgery, there may be restrictions on your activities for several days to weeks, depending on the type of procedure, or procedures.
  
• In many instances, breast reduction in females may be considered "reconstructive" rather than cosmetic, and may be at least partially covered by your insurance policy.
  
  

Your Cosmetic Surgery Consultation

It’s time to make your first appointment with an ASAPS-member plastic surgeon. When you call to arrange your consultation, your name will be entered on the schedule and a significant amount of time will be reserved for you to meet with the surgeon. That's why it is important for you to inform the surgeon's office as far in advance as possible if, for any reason, you are unable to keep your appointment. Doctors set their own policies regarding consultation fees. Be sure to ask about the consultation fee when you make your appointment.

The consultation usually begins with a discussion of what bothers you about your appearance. Depending on what procedure, or procedures, you are considering, you may be asked to change into a robe or patient gown for an examination. Your photograph may be taken for the medical record. After careful evaluation, your ASAPS surgeon will explain his or her recommendations. Either the surgeon or another qualified member of the practice will discuss with you the surgical benefits, risks and recovery period. A discussion of cost will likely include the surgeon's fee, facility fee, anesthesia, recovery and other related items. An ASAPS surgeon welcomes questions, and you should feel comfortable bringing up anything that is on your mind.

In the Hands of a Qualified Surgeon

Once you make the decision to schedule a date for your cosmetic surgery, your ASAPS surgeon will provide you with complete instructions on what to do before and after the surgical procedure. Your surgeon will make sure that you are fully prepared and know what to expect. Modern anesthesia and pain medications help to ensure that you will remain comfortable throughout your procedure and that any postoperative discomfort can be well managed. It may take a little time, but you will be on your way to a "better you" and maybe even a new outlook.

We hope that this has helped you to make the best possible choices about cosmetic surgery. Rest assured that when you select a Helen Elliott Enterprises, Inc. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, you have placed your trust in the hands of a qualified surgeon. For further assistance, call Helen Elliott Enterprises, Inc., today toll-free at, (888) 433-9091.

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