Top 7 Mistakes with Selecting Plastic Surgeons

After the tragic loss of Wild N’ Out’s beloved Ms. Jacky Oh on May 31, women everywhere are taking a second look at their BBL wishlists and asking themselves, “Is it really worth risking my life for the perfect body?” While Ms. Oh’s death was a rare case, it reminds us that choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is critical.

But searching for the right doctor can be difficult. That’s why many people end up going to the first surgeon they find, or one they’ve seen on Instagram or TikTok. Making these mistakes with selecting plastic surgeons usually ends in unsightly surgery or unhappy patients.

If you want to make sure you get the best possible results from your procedure, here are 7 pitfalls to steer clear of when selecting a plastic surgeon.

1. Not Considering the Risks

Some cosmetic procedures come with so many risks that their benefits seem insignificant. For example, BBLs, liposuction, and rhinoplasties are some of the most dangerous cosmetic procedures available today.

The most common complications include infection, internal bleeding, and other problems that can be treated with antibiotics. In rare cases, you may need additional operations to correct the results of your initial procedure.

If you’re considering a high-risk plastic surgery procedure, discuss your concerns with your doctor. The physician can provide you with the latest info on the dangers associated with this type of surgery so you can make an informed decision.

2. Choosing Results Over Qualifications

You may be tempted to choose a surgeon based on how small they got someone else’s nose or how big someone else’s breasts are. This is a mistake.

The most important thing to look for in a plastic surgeon is their credentials. You want someone with years of experience who has been trained by the best surgeons in their field. They’ll give you a better outcome than a doctor who just graduated from medical school or has only been doing plastic surgery for a few years.

3. Neglecting the Plastic Surgery Experience

Dr. Shahram Salemy of Madison Plastic Surgery in Seattle would agree that the best surgeons take pride in their work. They’ll move mountains (or at least surgical trays) to make sure your experience is nothing short of fantastic.

Find out if your potential medic uses state-of-the-art technology during surgery. It’s also worth looking into their customer service skills and patient care policies. Make sure you feel comfortable with your doctor and their staff.

4. Seeing a Few Before and After Pictures

Seeing two or three impressive photos of a surgeon’s work isn’t enough. You need to look at numerous examples of diverse patients (with different ethnicities and body types). This is the only way to get an idea of the possible results for your specific situation.

It also helps to look at pictures taken over time. Do they show improvement or regression?

5. Going With the First Surgeon You See

Because your options for surgeons are plentiful, take the time to find one who’ll treat you with respect. You don’t have to spend months looking for a suitable medic but don’t take the first offer that comes along.

If a doctor proposes a discount or free consultation, beware! This is usually a sign that the surgeon is desperate for business. The best doctors often have their calendars filled, so they don’t feel the need to offer huge discounts or free consultations.

6. Not Comparing Surgery Costs

How much does insurance cover? What about financing options? These are all very important questions to ask when you’re shopping for a surgeon.

Fortunately, there are plenty of tools for patients to compare surgery costs across multiple providers at once. RealSelf and CareCredit offer comprehensive databases with the average cost of different procedures in the United States. Use these resources to compare the average fees to what your local surgeons charge.

Keep in mind that price isn’t the only consideration. The quality of the facility, the experience of the doctors, and more all factor into your decision. But if you find a doctor who has good reviews and charges less than the average, it’s worth considering them.

7. Getting Quotes Without Understanding Them

Ask the surgeon for a quote directly. The front desk staff can only provide estimates of what your procedure would cost.

It’s better to get a quote from the person that did your consultation. That way, you can get an accurate price for your condition.

Once you’ve gotten your quotes, several important things should go into comparing them.

First, look at how long each procedure will take. If you need multiple surgeries to get the results you’re after, the surgeon’s quote should reflect this.

Review how much anesthesia will cost separately. Some people require more anesthesia than others so a surgeon may have to charge extra for this. The same goes for any medication that your doctor may prescribe.

Ask about any fees that look suspicious to you, such as “add-on” charges. Some surgeons charge for blood tests, x-rays, and other services that are included in a routine physical. If you aren’t sure what a certain charge covers, ask your surgeon.

Avoid These Mistakes With Selecting Plastic Surgeons

The mistakes with selecting plastic surgeons that are listed here aren’t the only ones you can make. They simply offer a starting point to help you find a doctor that’s qualified and safe.

If you’re looking for a plastic surgeon, look at their credentials and make sure that they have the appropriate experience. If you can’t find a doctor you’re comfortable with, check out our beauty section for tricks to improve your look without going under the knife.