How to Choose your Plastic Surgeon
October 16, 2019
Deciding to have cosmetic surgery is a big step and one that you probably have not taken lightly or without considerable thought. Entrusting your body to the hands of someone else requires immense trust.
Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon ?
A Plastic surgeon has committed many long years to study and training to obtain their specialist expertise. They have received a medical degree, completed a minimum of 5 years of study and training in surgery, demonstrated successful completion of training, passed a rigorous examination process overseen by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and been deemed qualified and certified to practice reconstructive and aesthetic (cosmetic) plastic surgery.
Plastic surgeons perform surgery on the entire body, from head to toe, which affords them a more comprehensive understanding of the entire body. This also provides them with extensive experience of a wide range of surgical techniques required for complex reconstructive and cosmetic problems.
Plastic surgeons have been at the forefront of developments and advances in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. The Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons says, “Only physicians who are certified in Plastic Surgery are Plastic Surgeons. The rule doesn’t always apply to the term “Cosmetic Surgeon,” so it is not unusual to see dermatologists, dentists or other doctors presenting themselves as cosmetic surgeons”.
Here are some suggestions and considerations when choosing your plastic surgeon:
Spend time doing research
- Make sure your surgeon is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Canada. You can do this easily by contacting the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
- Are they a member of the Society of Plastic Surgeons of Canada?
- Check with the provincial college of physicians and surgeons to see whether the surgeon is licenced and whether disciplinary action has been taken against them.
- Ask the surgeon what their experience is with the procedure you are interested in. Ask how frequently they perform the procedure you want and what the complication rates are.
Review the surgeon’s before and after photos
- This enables you to ensure the outcomes are in line with your expectations.
- This also allows you to see whether you have similar aesthetic ideals.
Consider how you feel during your consultation with the staff and the surgeon
- Do you like the surgeon? Are they friendly, welcoming, understanding and do they listen to your ideas and concerns?
- Do you trust this person to recommend what is best for you?
- Would you feel comfortable asking any questions you might have?
- Be wary of the surgeon who “guarantees” satisfaction or diminishes the risks or recovery time involved when speaking with them.
Read the patient consent form carefully before signing it.
- Ask what will happen if complications occur or further surgery is needed. Will additional surgery have an additional fee?
- What type of follow-up care will be given?
- Be thorough when discussing your expectations with your doctor. Open, honest and detailed communication before surgery tends to result in greater satisfaction.
Find out about the operating facility
- Ask about the anaesthesiologists qualifications and experience
Customer service matters too:
- Is the staff friendly and helpful?
- Do you get materials that fully prepare you for the risks and realities of surgery and recovery?
- Are all fees clearly stated? Is the quote all-inclusive?
For a consultation with Dr. Tregaskiss please contact the office and a coordinator will be very happy to speak with you about your areas of concern.
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