What to know beforehand about cosmetic surgery

If you're considering cosmetic surgery, it's important to be well informed and well prepared. Here are tips from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery: 1Make sure the doctor is board certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Check online at abplsurg.org. Also check the doctor's standing with the Arizona Medical Board at azmd.gov.

2Ask about hospital privileges. Find out whether the doctor has operating privileges in an accredited hospital. If the doctor does not have hospital privileges to perform your procedure, look for another surgeon. If the doctor operates in an ambulatory or office-based facility, ask whether the facility is accredited.

3During your consultation, ask the following questions:


• What experience does the doctor have in performing this 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 possible risks? Find out what they are, how often they occur and how they will be handled if they do occur.


• What is the expected recovery for the procedure? Ask about postoperative restrictions on activity and typical time periods for resuming work and social activities.


• What is the doctor's policy on surgical revisions? Find out about any costs for which you may be responsible.


• How much will the surgery cost? Cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance, and payment usually is required in advance. Costs include the surgeon's fee, surgical facility fees and anesthesia. Other possible costs are the preoperative physical and blood work, medications, surgical garments and private-duty nursing.