Dr. Renato Saltz of Saltz Plastic Surgery shares questions to ask during your surgical consultation when considering reconstructive surgery. Dr. Saltz believes that patients should fully educated themselves on all the issues and risks. Following are some of the basic questions everyone should ask their plastic surgeon before making a decision.
*Part 1 can be found here, where Dr. Saltz answers FAQ’s when considering plastic surgery after bariatric surgery.
Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians at www.RMAP.com
Is the doctor a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)?
ASAPS membership ensure that the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (see next question) and has also met other special requirements for cosmetic surgery experience and continueing education.
Is the doctor certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)?
When a doctor claims to be “board certified,” ask by which board. Only one, the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) to certify doctors in the specialty of plastic surgery.
Does the doctor have hospital privileges?
Some surgical procedures can be performed safely in the doctor’s office or another ambulatory surgical facility. However, it is important to find out if the doctor has operating privileges in an accredited hospital for the same procedure you are considering. Before granting operating privileges, hospital review committees evaluate a surgeon’s training and competency for specific procedures. If the doctor does not have hospital privileges to perform your procedure, look for another surgeon.
What experience does the doctor have in performing the specific procedure?
Ask what training has been completed, especially in new techniques, as well as how often he or she performs the procedure. Ask to see certificates of training.
What are the risks?
There are risks with any surgical procedure. Find out what buy phentermine online for cheap they are, how often they occur, and how they will be handled if they do occur. If the doctor does not openly discuss the risks or says that there are no risks, seek another opinion.
What is the expected recovery for the procedure?
Important points to discuss are post-operative restrictions on activity and typical time periods for resuming work and social activities.
What is the doctor’s policy on surgical revisions?
A small percentage of cases may require surgical revisions to achieve the desired result. Find out about any costs for which you may be responsible.
How much will the surgery cost?
Cosmetic surgery is usually not covered by insurance, and payment usually is required in advance. Costs include the surgeon, and fees for the surgical facility and anesthesia. Other possible costs are the preoperative physical and blood work, medications, surgical garments, and private-duty nursing. While it is tempting to “bargain shop,” the training and experience of your surgeon are the most important factors in the success of your surgery. Do no compromise.
We understand undergoing surgery is a personal decision. We encourage you to continue to do your research.
Plastic surgeon Renato Saltz, MD, is a board certified plastic reconstructive surgeon with an interest in cosmetic surgery, specifically in facial rejuvenation, body contouring, breast surgery and reconstruction after cancer. His goal is to deliver the best results to patients accompanied by the highest level of attention to detail and service.
Saltz Plastic Surgery & Saltz Spa Vitoria
Salt Lake City
5445 Highland Dr.
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
(801) 274-9500
Park City
1820 Sidewinder Dr.
Park City, UT 84060
(435) 655-6612
www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124