In this two-part guide, we are taking a closer look at the plastic surgery consultation process so you can be fully prepared for your first meeting with your doctor. We have already discussed the importance of asking for references, advice, and before and after photos in Part 1. Now we will look at some more questions to ask during your plastic surgery consultation to help you be an informed patient from the start.

5 – What Should I Expect About My Specific Cosmetic Surgery Procedure?

Everyone has a different concern, so please ask me, Dr. Awada, anything you want to know about your plastic surgery experience itself. This is your time to put away the worries and let me do what I can do to help you. Common questions I hear about plastic surgery include:

• What are the risks and alternatives?
• Do I need to have a physical and labs before my procedure?
• When am I ready? Will I need to lose more weight?
• What type of anesthesia will I be under, and what are the risks of that?
• How long will the surgery take to complete?
• Do the residents and physician assistants sew in the procedure or does the plastic surgeon do all the work?
• Will I need to stay the night, or can I go home the same day?

Don’t be afraid to go into detail about what to expect from plastic surgery so you can completely understand what will happen. This is the best way to be prepared, feel confident, relieve fears, and minimize risk.

6 – How Much Will My Surgery Cost?

The cost of plastic surgery varies significantly from one procedure to the next. Most cosmetic procedures are not covered by medical insurance unless they are the result of accident or personal injury. With this in mind, you may qualify for plastic surgery financing to help you pay off your procedure over time. Ask about all of the fees that you may come across with surgery, including follow-up appointments, anesthesia fees, implant fees (if applicable), facility fees, aftercare medication, and post surgical garments. Ask about the cost of revision surgery so you can be prepared for a worst case scenario. Other plastic surgeons may charge for revisions, but I never do. Beware of any plastic surgery centers advertising “buy one get free” specials and price discounts because plastic surgeons are not allowed to do this. In many cases, the “cheap” plastic surgery leads to equally cheap results, which could cause permanent damage to your body.

7 – What Should I Expect During My Recovery?

Your plastic surgery recovery is just as important as the surgery itself. This will determine whether or not your body heals properly so you can get the best possible results from your procedure. Ask what you can expect during your recovery, including recovery times, medications you will be taking, sleeping and bathing arrangements, and more.

• How long will I be off of work?
• When can I return to work, lift heavy objects and exercise?
• Will all of my garments be provided for me?
• Should I eat anything specific?
• What herbals should I take to speed up recovery and healing?
• Will ice be helpful?

Asking these questions will help you prepare to take time off work or arrange for alternative transportation so you are not stuck in a bind during the healing process.

Got More Questions? Just Ask!

As a female plastic surgeon, I have a unique understanding of a woman’s concerns about cosmetic surgery. I would be more than happy to answer all of your questions about plastic surgery. At our first meeting, I will go over what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Feel free to schedule your complimentary consultation with me, Dr. Mariam Awada, at 248-948-5500. Together, we will work to boost your confidence, enhance your natural beauty, and come up with the best plan possible for your cosmetic surgery. I look forward to meeting you and personally welcome you to my practice! Many women just like you have trusted me for their amazing results with breast augmentation in Michigan.