The 15 Smartest Questions to Ask Your Prospective Surgeon

Secret: Unique Insider Information. A shortcut to sort out the most qualified doctors.

Asking questions is an art form. Conducting an interview is a learned skill. It is difficult for many people to construct an analytical approach when consulting with professionals. It is particularly challenging in the world of cosmetic surgery where emotion can override wisdom. Following are 15 powerful questions to keep you on track:

1. Do you practice cosmetic surgery exclusively? What percentage is performed on the face? What percentage is performed on other parts of the body?

2. If you don't perform cosmetic surgery exclusively, what percentage of the practice is dedicated to cosmetic vs. reconstructive surgery?

3. How long have you been performing the procedures I am considering? How many of these procedures do you perform in a year?

4. Do you have hospital privileges to perform the procedures I am requesting?

5. Did you serve a fellowship in cosmetic surgery? If fellowship trained, how long was the fellowship? What types of cases did you perform, assist in or observe during your fellowship?

6. Have you written books or authored journal articles on facial cosmetic surgery? On body cosmetic surgery?

7. Do you teach other doctors your techniques of cosmetic surgery?

8. May I receive a copy of your professional biography summarizing your training, qualifications and credentials to perform the procedures I want?

9. Can I speak to a patient who's had a similar procedure performed by you?

10. Where is the surgery to take place? Your office? Outpatient surgery center? Hospital? Whichever it is, is it licensed by the state and /or the U.S. government? Or is it accredited by The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Ambulatory Health Organizations or by The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care or The American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities?

11. Will I need to have a physical examination and lab tests prior to surgery? Who does this you, or my primary physician?

12. What type of anesthesia can I expect? Local anesthesia only, local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia? Why do you choose that type? Who will administer the anesthetic? Adoctor anesthesiologist, a nurse anesthetist, or you? How long will I be "under"?

13. What are the most common complications of this procedure? Which is the most serious? How would these be anticipated and/or corrected?

14. What if I need a redo or touchup procedure? Will there be additional charges by the surgeon? By the surgery center? By the anesthesiologist?

15. What stages of healing can I expect? How long are each of these? When can I resume my daily activities? What follow up can I expect from you and your office?

Awise man is one who never asks a question he doesn't know the answer to…before he buys. He knows what the "right answer" should be. Many surgeons could answer the questions above. How can you be sure the answer you get is the right one? Be wise. Know the answers you are looking for. By the time you turn the last page of this book, you will recognize the correct answer when you hear it.