If you have ever thought about “having a little work done” to improve your appearance, you are definitely not alone. According to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 17.5 million cosmetic surgeries and minimally invasive procedures were performed in the United States in 2017 on both men and women.
Thinking about plastic surgery is easy, but taking the next steps can be intimidating. Finding the right surgeon is key to a good experience and great results. You will want to make sure the surgeon you choose has the right credentials, has experience and consistent results with the type of procedure you want, and has privileges at an accredited hospital.
One you have selected a candidate or two, your initial consultation will help you choose the best surgeon for you. First, notice how the doctor, office staff and office environment make you feel. Are you comfortable asking questions and confident in the answers you receive?
“Plastic surgery is very personal. At your first visit with a surgeon, you may feel awkward, embarrassed or afraid of being judged. The surgeon should be sensitive to your feelings and be able to make you feel at ease,” says Shoshana Ambani, M.D., a plastic surgeon with Henry Ford Allegiance Health.
It is important for a plastic surgeon to listen and understand the goal you hope to achieve. He or she should be open with you about the results you can expect.
“Most of my patients don’t want to look drastically different. They want to look a bit younger, more relaxed, less tired—but they still want to feel like themselves, just more confident,” Dr. Ambani explains. “If they have unreasonable expectations or hope to look like a celebrity, the surgeon should help them set more reasonable goals. The patient’s health and safety should always be the primary concerns.”
Finally, the surgeon should discuss a range of options with you, both surgical and non-surgical. He or she should be able to explain the risks and benefits of each option, in a way you can understand. Never feel pressured to make a quick decision or one you aren’t totally comfortable with. You will receive the best results when you and your surgeon are in full agreement on goals and expectations. If you are not, you haven’t yet found the right surgeon for you.
To schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon, visit henryford.com or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).
If you’re in the Jackson area or south central Michigan, visit henryfordallegiance.com or call 1-888-862-DOCS.
Dr. Shoshana Ambani specializes in plastic and reconstructive surgery and is the Medical Director of Plastic Surgery at Henry Ford Allegiance Health, in Jackson, Michigan. Her areas of particular interest include breast reconstruction and other breast surgery, skin cancer reconstruction, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping to improve appearance or breathing), facial rejuvenation (facelift, eye lift, brow lift), body contouring, lymphedema surgery, and lower extremity reconstruction.
Listen to Dr. Ambani talk more about plastic and reconstructive surgery on an episode of “TMI? Let’s Talk More About It” podcast, produced by Henry Ford Allegiance Health.
