In our last blog "Where To Look When Researching" we discussed various sources of reliable information. What information will actually help you make the best decision when considering plastic surgery? In this blog post we will discuss 5 things to look for.
1. Qualifications
In Australia, a certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon will have the following qualification: FRACS. This means they are a Fellow of The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.
This qualification means:
- Minimum of 12 years medical and surgical education, including at least 5 years specialist postgraduate training
- Strict code of ethics
- Commitment to continuing education requirements
- Operates in accredited medical facilities
Only certified Specialist Plastic Surgeons are allowed to use the term "Specialist Plastic Surgeon".
2. Accreditations
Check which hospitals your surgeon is accredited with and if the accreditation is still current. Many surgeries in Australia should only be performed in an accredited hospital facility.
3. Reviews
Reviews can be a helpful guide to finding a plastic surgeon. It is a good idea to take into account the number of reviews listed for the surgeon and the ratio of good to bad reviews. Look at the overall theme of the reviews ie does the doctor listen and are they warm and caring as a whole. A bad review on its own does not necessarily reflect the true story and needs to be put into perspective with the other reviews the surgeon has. Of course, if all the reviews are bad it might be telling you something. A recent survey by realself showed that most patients would consider a surgeon with a 4.5+ rating.
4. Photos
Many patients want to see a before and after gallery of their surgeons work and many surgeons are happy to provide an online gallery. Other surgeons have strict privacy policies on photos but are happy to show before and afters during a consultation.
Online photos although helpful can be misleading as each person has different body structures and differing results from similar procedures. The body does not heal uniformly and no two results are exactly the same. Ask your surgeon to show you photos of patients with a similar situation to your own.
Make sure before and after photos have the same lighting conditions, same angles and positions, ideally without make-up and are not touched up etc.
5. Fees
While tempting, the lowest fee is not necessarily the best option. When considering the fees ensure they include everything ie surgeon, hospital, anaesthetist, garments, implants, surgical assistant and follow-up. Ask what is included in the fees provided.
In Part 3 of this plastic surgery research blog we will discuss what to look for when consulting a plastic surgeon.
As always, no procedure is without risk. A discussion of all potential benefits and complications should be held during consultation with a certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
If you have any other questions or concerns about plastic surgery or the procedures plastic surgeons perform, send an enquiry on our contact page and we will do our best to help.
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