| Seven Questions You
Should Ask Your Surgeon Before You Undergo Cosmetic Surgery
Over half a million men and women in the U.S. will
undergo cosmetic surgery this year. Unfortunately, many will devote
more time researching a planned new car purchase than finding
a qualified plastic surgeon. We strongly recommend that you ask
the following questions of your prospective surgeon before undergoing
cosmetic surgery.
- Are you Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
Fact: Many physicians performing cosmetic
surgery are non-plastic surgeons. Many are gynecologists,
dermatologists, and even dentists. Some have had little formal
training in the performance of the surgery.
Dr. Friedman is Certified by the American Board of Plastic
Surgery. He is also a Clinical Instructor for the American
Society of Plastic Surgeons, Candidate Liaison for the American
Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and Former Chief of
Plastic Surgery at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas.
- Do you have an artistic background?
Fact: Most physicians have no background
in artistry or sculpture.
Dr. Friedman is an experienced wood and marble sculptor whose
work has been exhibited in several galleries and is part of
many private collections.
- Do you have an academic background?
Fact: Most surgeons do not teach, lecture,
or publish.
Prior to entering private practice in 1996, Dr. Friedman served
as Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at the University
of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. He has numerous
publications, national presentations, and radio and television
interviews to his credit. He has written invited commentaries
for the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and
Plastic Surgery Outlook. He has been lecturing nationally
for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons since 1996.
- Who performs the preoperative consultation?
Fact: Many surgeons perform only a cursory
evaluation prior to surgery, instead referring you to a "cosmetic
surgery coordinator" to answer your questions. If a surgeon
does not have time to spend with you before surgery,
do you think that he will take his time during surgery
or will spend time with you after surgery?
Dr. Friedman performs a thorough preoperative evaluation and
will personally address each of your questions and concerns.
He generally sees patients twice prior to surgery, since he
knows that many patients think of additional questions after
their initial visit.
- Who performs the surgery?
Fact: Many surgeons rely on assistants
to perform a portion of the procedure (such as closure of
the incisions), as they divide their time and attention between
patients in two different operating rooms.
Dr. Friedman performs each and every surgery from start to
finish. His AAAASF accredited facility, the West Plano Plastic
Surgery Center, has only one operating room because he only
operates on one patient at a time.
- Who provides the anesthesia?
Fact: Most anesthesia for cosmetic surgery
is provided by nurse anesthetists.
Dr. Friedman exclusively uses physician anesthesiologists
for all surgical procedures. He believes that their specialized
training and expertise enhance patient comfort and safety.
- Who performs the postoperative follow-up visits?
Fact: Many surgeons are too busy to see
their patients for routine postoperative visits. Instead,
you will see a nurse or physician's assistant.
Dr. Friedman performs each and every visit following cosmetic
surgery. He generally schedules regular postoperative visits
for up to a year after surgery. If requested, he will schedule
additional visits to address any questions or concerns.
There are many decisions to make when choosing to undergo
cosmetic surgery. Remember that your most important decision
is the surgeon. Choose carefully.
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