Q: A: This is an excellent question. Choosing a facial plastic surgeon you can trust is probably the most important decision you can make to ensure getting the results you desire. You want a surgeon who is not only well-qualified to do the surgery from a medical and technical standpoint, but who also has the artistic skills to provide the most beautiful outcome. And of course you want a truly artistic, natural-looking face lift, because the results will be so visible to both yourself and everyone you encounter.
In order to find the right facial plastic surgeon for you, be prepared to do your research and ask a lot of questions.
Online reviews can be a valuable tool, but so can word of mouth. If you have a friend or acquaintance who has been open about having plastic surgery, ask them if they recommend their surgeon. They can be a valuable source of information from a patient perspective.
You will also want to check the credentials of each potential facial plastic surgeon. What medical school did they attend? What training and fellowships have they completed? Have they won any awards or achieved any distinctions in their field of specialty? How many of your particular procedure have they performed?
Take advantage of a consultation. Most surgeons will offer you the chance to sit down and talk with them about the procedure, and will welcome your questions. Many surgeons offer this consultation free of charge, or will apply the cost of the visit to a future procedure.
A consultation is your time to get comfortable with the surgeon and the procedure. You can share pictures or a description of your desired outcome, and get feedback from the surgeon as to whether your expectations are realistic. The surgeon will also share valuable information with you regarding recovery time, etc.
View the surgeon’s before and after photo gallery. This is one of the most helpful tools you will use in your search for a qualified, skilled surgeon because it so clearly demonstrates the surgeon’s mastery of a procedure.
A reputable surgeon will be able to share many photos of patients, both before and after their procedure, from multiple angles. Remember, training does not necessarily translate into the skill and artistry that the best cosmetic surgery requires. Before and after pictures are vital in helping you make the most informed decision possible.
If you are interested in learning more about a facial plastic surgery, please call Southern Surgical Arts at 423-266-3331 for a free personal consultation. Dr. Carey Nease is a board-certified, award-winning facial plastic surgeon, and he welcomes the opportunity to discuss your questions with you.
