There are a lot of decisions to be made when you are considering a cosmetic surgery procedure, but the one that stands out above the rest is choosing the right surgeon. There will be many factors that you will want to consider including the surgeon’s credentials and training and your comfort level with the surgeon and staff. This is not an easy process and you will want to schedule several consultations with different surgeons before making a final decision.
Your first step in the process is doing research and a lot of it! Start by gathering as much information as possible on plastic surgeons in the Kingsport, Bristol and Johnson City area. Search the web, read the “about me” and “procedure” sections and take a look at their before and after photos to get a realistic expectation for the results of your desired procedure. You can also ask your friends and family members if they have a recommendation for a plastic surgeon or use your connections in the healthcare field, such as your primary care doctor or nurse, operating room nurses, hospital referral lines, medical directories, and even the phone book can be helpful.
Once you’ve developed your initial list, investigate each physician’s credentials. Focus on surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification guarantees that the surgeon has fulfilled the rigorous standards that are set by the board. This includes passing a written and oral examination, graduating from an accredited medical school and a three-year residency devoted to the plastic surgery field. You can verify a surgeon’s board certification through the American Board of Medical Specialties web site.
Now it is time to schedule a consultation with your top three or four choices. Speak to the patient coordinator and begin asking questions about the office. Listen to how you are treated on the phone, as it may indicate how you will be treated in the office. If you are comfortable after the initial phone conversation, schedule a consultation. Your ideal plastic surgeon should make you feel calm and confident in their abilities, should take the time to listen to your concerns and answer all of your questions honestly and accurately and they should provide you with objective recommendations. Ask to see “before and after” photos of other cosmetic surgery patients and ask to speak with former patients to listen to their experiences. Once you have completed all of these steps, chances are that you will be satisfied with your choice. Last item on the list? Get ready for an amazing and life-changing experience!
If you are ready for a consultation to discuss the options for your new look, give us a call today to set up a time. Dr. Huddleston is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 22 years of experience, and he is ready to give you the body you have always dreamed of.
