WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE SCHEDULING A PLASTIC SURGERY CONSULTATION

Cosmetic surgery has gone main stream. Just review the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPC). Over 10.2 million cosmetic surgery procedures were performed in the U.S. last year, an increase of 11 percent over the previous year. Reconstructive plastic surgeries also yielded impressive numbers, coming in at more than 5.4 million in 2005. “The obvious popularity of cosmetic surgery only emphasizes the fact that patients need to be educated before they commit to a procedure,” says Robert Zubowski, MD. While general surgeons, dermatologists, and other physicians, even gynecologists, are performing aesthetic procedures, Dr. Zubowski cautions that, as with all medically related issues, using a true specialist makes absolute sense. In the case of cosmetic surgeries he stresses the importance of seeking a board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in aesthetics. Dr. Zubowski, fellowship trained in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, is continuously cited as a “Top Doc” by various rating organizations. He also advises patients to thoroughly check the credentials of their prospective surgeon. “During your initial consultation you should inquire about your surgeon’s educational background,” he says. You can also obtain additional information by looking him up on the AMA Physician Finder Website. Being completely comfortable and familiar with the procedure you are contemplating goes a long way in building a rewarding doctor-patient relationship. Asking your physician to communicate what he feels he can achieve for you is a basic consideration that should be discussed during the initial consultation. At The Robert Zubowski MD Center, surgery candidates are mailed a packet of informative brochures pertinent to the contemplated procedure, so that on the consultation day the patient is better prepared to discuss it with the doctor and/or members of his medical team. Another helpful medical information site is located at kosmix.com. Information from your surgeon, his brochures and reliable website sources will help you avoid unwanted surprises on the day of your surgery. During the consultation it is also important to find out where your surgery will take place. For safety’s sake you deserve to have it performed in a fully accredited facility such as SurgiCenter, which carries AAAASF and Medicare accreditation. It’s also essential that you inquire about who will be in the surgery room assisting your surgeon, and the type of anesthetic to be administered. Dr. Zubowski has assembled a team of specialists who only handle plastic surgery cases. He works with the same board-certified anesthesiologists that he has for years. Experience tells. Surgeon and anesthesiologist, along with tenured specially trained nurses and operating room technicians, create a symbiotic environment that is both beneficial and safe for the patient.