What Should I Ask When Choosing a Facial Plastic Surgeon?
The most important factors to consider are not the surgeon’s specialty nor the surgeon’s degrees, but rather the surgeon’s outcome and the treatment experience.
Below are some important questions to ask in your search for a cosmetic facial surgeon.
How much cosmetic surgery does your doctor perform as a part of his or her practice?
Many surgeons perform cosmetic and other surgery, and the breakdown of these treatments varies from physician to physician. A larger part of the surgeon’s practice devoted to cosmetic surgery usually translates into greater experience in this field. Dr. Fishman’s practice is approximately 70% aesthetic (both surgical and non-surgical) and 30% functional and reconstructive. Dr. Fishman believes this breakdown is the best use of her knowledge and skills, with the reconstructive practice making her aesthetic skills better and vice versa.
Who will be performing your surgery?
Some surgeon utilize fellows, residents, and other trainees in their practice. While teaching is a wonderful way to develop and pass on one’s skills, Dr. Fishman firmly believes in performing 100% of her surgical and injectable treatments herself.
Is your surgeon personable and caring? Will he or she listen to what you want and be there for you throughout the entire surgical experience?
The relationship between patient and surgeon is very important, and open and ongoing communication is a key part of this relationship. Pre-operative and post-operative care are just as important as the events of surgery, and Dr. Fishman is fully committed to her patients’ comfort, safety, great outcomes, and a wonderful treatment experience.
Can you pick up the phone and speak with your surgeon?
This is perhaps one of the most important qualities to find. Aesthetic surgical and non-surgical treatments are a daily affair for the Aviva practice, but may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a lot of people. Patients commonly have questions about preparing for surgery and post-surgery symptoms, and often need to get in touch with their surgeon or the surgeon’s staff quickly. Dr. Fishman encourages her patients to call or contact her and her office at any time, and believes in care beyond business hours.
