We have provided some Checklists to read before you discuss your proposed surgery options with your Plastic Surgeon. These checklists include resources for plastic surgery patients that will assist their journey through a plastic surgery consultation and surgical procedure journey. Before you decide on your Surgeon or proceed with surgery, there are a few important questions to consider:
- Am I a good candidate for surgery?
- What are my options for surgery?
- What will my surgery involve?
- What are the risks and complications of the surgery?
- Do I have realistic expectations?
- Am I financially prepared?
- Am I emotionally prepared?
- Am I prepared for my initial consultation
Which of our Team’s recommended Plastic Surgeons should you choose?
OUR TEAM OF PLASTIC SURGEONS AND ENT SURGEON
Dr Craig Rubinstein – Specialist Plastic Surgeon (Melbourne)
Dr Patrick Briggs – Specialist Plastic Surgeon (Melbourne)
Mr Gary Kode – Specialist Plastic Surgeon (Melbourne)
Dr Broughton Snell – Specialist Plastic Surgeon (Melbourne and Bendigo)
Dr Stephen Kleid – Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon (Melbourne)
Coco Ruby’s Surgeons for Breast, Body, Face and Skin Procedures are based in Melbourne.
- The key to choosing between a recommended Surgeon is to do adequate homework and research.
- Look at before and after cosmetic surgery photos, read the blogs and articles, and watch Plastic Surgery videos.
- Don’t just rely on online reviews or health information online or on television – know the difference between a General Practitioner (GP), Cosmetic Surgeon or Skin Doctor and a FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) qualified Plastic Surgeon (Specialist) so that you can have trust in your choice of Surgeon.
Not all Surgeons have the same training
- Some have less than a year of additional training in cosmetic surgery, versus over 12 years of additional training in Cosmetic, Plastic or Reconstructive Surgery, such as a FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) that a qualified Plastic Surgeon will have.
- Some can only operate in their rooms and do not have privileges in hospitals.
- The best way to check is to ask and verify with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and other medical boards whether your Specialist Plastic Surgeon is registered.
Why do people want Plastic or Cosmetic Surgery?
- If they have a specific feature they are unhappy about – however it is crucial to note that surgery may not be the initial or primary solution.
- Our Surgeons provide candid assessments of what surgery can achieve and what it cannot. They are also here to help you explore alternative options if they better suit your needs.
- Correcting medical issues – some surgeries are performed for medical reasons, such as reconstructive surgery after accidents or to correct congenital abnormalities, improving function and appearance. If you have a condition where surgery is undeniably the most suitable choice, our experienced team is ready to assist you.
It is essential to note that people’s motivations for plastic surgery are diverse and complex and each person’s decision is deeply personal. Consulting with experienced and certified Plastic Surgeons is crucial for anyone considering these procedures, ensuring they make informed choices based on their specific needs and desires.
Who is a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery
A good candidate for plastic surgery typically meets specific criteria that ensure a safe and successful outcome. Here are some factors that contribute to being a suitable candidate for plastic surgery:
- Realistic Expectations: A good candidate understands the limitations of plastic surgery and has realistic expectations about the results. They understand that plastic surgery can change appearance but might not necessarily lead to perfection.
- Good Overall Health: Candidates should be in good general health. Chronic health conditions like diabetes or heart disease can increase the risks associated with surgery. A comprehensive health assessment by a surgeon is crucial to determine eligibility.
- Stable Emotional Health: Emotional stability is vital. Candidates should be undergoing surgery for themselves, not to meet someone else’s expectations or to try to solve personal issues.
- Non-Smoker: Smoking can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Plastic surgeons often recommend quitting smoking for a certain period before and after the surgery.
- Maintain a Stable Weight: Candidates should be at a stable weight before considering procedures like liposuction or body contouring. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the results.
- Understanding the Risks: A good candidate is well informed about the potential risks and complications associated with the chosen procedure and is willing to follow pre-operative and post-operative instructions to minimise these risks.
- Commitment to Recovery: Plastic surgery often requires a significant recovery period. A good candidate is prepared to follow the surgeon’s instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
- Open Communication: A willingness to openly communicate with the surgeon about medical history, expectations, and concerns is crucial. Honesty and transparency help the surgeon plan the procedure effectively.
- Financial Readiness: Plastic surgery can be costly, and a good candidate should be financially prepared to cover the costs of the procedure, as well as potential follow-up treatments or revisions if necessary.
Ultimately the decision to undergo plastic surgery should be made after careful consideration, consultation with qualified surgeons, and a thorough understanding of the procedure and its implications. Each individual is unique and suitability for plastic surgery is determined on an individual basis.
For more information on your chosen procedure:
Visit our FAQs, learn more about your procedure, have a look at our Photo Galleries
Contact the Patient Care Team or phone number: 1300 599 990
