Step 1 - Getting a List of Names

The first step to choosing your cosmetic doctor is to develop a list of names. Where should you begin to look?

The most common places people look for cosmetic surgeons are: (1) on the Internet; and (2) in the yellow pages. Why? People can determine a lot about their potential doctors without having to leave their homes. This information is literally at their fingertips.

Many cosmetic doctors offer potential patients many opportunities to get to know them, even before they come to their offices. This can be from FREE reports they offer at their websites or from a 1-800 or 1-888 phone service.

There are a number of ways to build your list of doctors, and these include asking friends, doctors, hospitals and the Ethical Cosmetic Surgery Association.

When acquiring names of doctors from friends, it is wise to remember that every surgery is unique just as every person is unique; therefore, your cosmetic surgery may not turn out the same as your friend’s.

Your family doctor is another great source of information, and he or she may be able to recommend good alternatives for you. Some good advice is to ask your doctor how many people he or she has referred to a particular doctor.

The Ethical Cosmetic Surgery Association (ECSA) is probably the best place to search for names. You can find them at Ethical Cosmetic Surgeon Directory.

Once your list of potential doctors has been compiled, you are ready to move on to step 2.

Step 2 - Checking Up and Finding Out

Step 2 is, in fact, more important than step 1. It is here that you start to cross off unsuitable candidates. Step 2 involves checking all the credentials of the doctors on your list, so you should be prepared for some time consuming work. Good credentials are essential, and you can obtain this information the Ethical Cosmetic Surgeon Directory and from hospitals and the surgeon’s office if needed.

When checking prospective doctors’ training, remember that it is not where they went to school that is important, but the type of training they received. It is not where they trained but with whom they trained.

You should also check the facility in which the doctors do surgery. Most doctors who perform surgery will do so in an appropriate setting. For example, liposuction can be safely performed in a non-hospital surgical facility.

For an even more thorough check, you can also look at the doctors’ experience. This can involve asking the doctors on your list how often they perform the procedure you are considering.

Step 3 - Questions and Answers

Now that you have narrowed your list to a handful of potential doctors, the next step is to set up a consultation appointment. This is your chance to ask questions and take notes, so bring a notebook and pen. You will need your notes for comparison later.

During your consultation you will be given the opportunity to ask questions, so whatever you do, don’t miss out on this crucial way to get the information you need. Prepare your questions beforehand, and be sure to include the ones we have listed below:

  1. Ask about the procedure and what the process involves.
  2. How long is the recovery period?
  3. What are the risks involved?
  4. What pre-surgery steps must be taken?

Cosmetic surgeons should always offer the following during a consultation:

  • They should always answer questions fully and in easy to understand language.
  • They should always ask you why you are considering having the procedure and what you expect from it.
  • They should offer alternatives without pressuring you into making any decisions. (You should be wary of any cosmetic surgeon who tries to get you to have a number of procedures when you have been considering only one.)
  • They should be willing to answer any questions you may have about their qualifications, prices and payment plans.
  • They should fully explain the risks involved in the procedure, and if you are shown photographs, the doctor should also explain that all results are different and there is no guarantee your results will be the same.
  • They should fully discuss and clearly explain aftercare and postoperative instructions.

Throughout the consultation it is wise to take note of the doctor’s opinions, fees and personality; how he or she answers your questions; and how he or she explains things. All of this will help when it comes to the final comparison.

Step 4 - Making the Right Choice

With all the hard work completed, it is now time to make your choice. If you’ve followed all of our steps, you will be ready to make your decision and choose the right cosmetic surgeon. Using our list of comparisons in step 3 will help you, but just in case you’re still not 100 % sure of your choice, here are some warnings to consider:

  • Avoid any doctor if he or she is unwilling to answer your questions.
  • Avoid any doctor who is impatient, does not explain things fully or with whom you feel uncomfortable.
  • Avoid any doctor who does not have a professional office or a professional personal appearance.
  • Avoid any doctor whom you feel is pressuring you into adding unnecessary procedures.

The most important thing in choosing your doctor is to remember that the decision really is yours, so only you can make the right one.