Cosmetic surgery checklist

This is a patient safety checklist for those considering cosmetic surgery. The information is provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

To help ensure optimal results and to limit risks and complications, the American Society for Plastic Surgery (ASPS) offers the following tips to anyone considering cosmetic surgery in the United States.

Do Your Homework: Research the procedure, the benefits, and the risks. Refer to www.plasticsurgery.org for the latest information on plastic surgery procedures.

Have Realistic Expectations: Ask your plastic surgeon questions about how the surgery will work for you: identify expectations and understand side effects and recovery time.

Be Informed: Talk to patients who have had your procedure so you know what to expect.

Require a Medical Evaluation: Consult with your plastic surgeon for an evaluation and discuss your full medical history to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Choose an ASPS Member Surgeon: Why? ASPS Member Surgeons are qualified, trained, properly certified, experienced in your procedure, and operate only in accredited facilities.
 

Ask Questions:

    Are you an ASPS Member Surgeon?
    Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
    Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? If so, at which hospitals?
    How many procedures of this type have you performed?
    Am I a good candidate for this procedure? What will be expected of me to get optimal results?
    Where and how will you perform my procedure?
    Is the surgical facility accredited?
    What are the risks involved with my procedure?
    How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
    Will I need to take time off work? If so, how long?
    How much will my procedure cost? Are financing options available?
    How are complications handled?