Question:
What is the process?

I have appointments in February to interview two plastic surgeons. I don't know anyone that has had plastic surgery & I am wondering what sort of process it is. What happens during your initial consultation? Does everyone have pictures taken? Who sees them? When did you find out if you were approved by your insurance company? Was the surgeon able to give you a good idea whether or not there was a good chance the procedure would be covered? How do you decide what to start with? How do you know what you will look like when you are done? I know, lots of questions, but I always feel better when I know what to expect. Thanks in advance for the input. Heather Nelson    — Heather N. (posted on January 10, 2003)

January 10, 2003
Heather, I believe plastic surgery procedures are not covered by insurance very often. At your initial appointment, the surgeon will examine you. If you are trying to get insurance to cover the procedure, he will take pictures and send them to the insurance company, along with a letter trying to convince them that the surgery is medically necessary. If you are self-paying, the doctor may not take pictures then, but rather wait till a pre-op visit. As far as what to start with?? Whatever is worst--whatever you hate the most! A tummy tuck will probably make a big difference in appearance (and big self-confidence boost). But that is also one of the plastic surgeries that takes a long recovery time--much more than, for example, a breast lift. You don't know what you'll look like, but I decided that anything would be an improvement. Find a surgeon you like and have confidence in. Their goal is to make improvements. Good luck!
   — Sarah S.