So you’re considering some kind of plastic surgery procedure and, if you’re like most people, you don’t really know where to start. Worry no more! You have come to the right place! Arm yourself with these four key questions for consultations with your top doctor picks:

What are the most common procedures you perform? Do you specialize in a certain type of procedure?

This question is great to ask so you can get acquainted with the surgeon and what they typically perform. Board certified plastic surgeons like Dr. Aisha White most likely have a specialty. For example, her special interests include breast reconstruction, breast reduction, mommy makeover, tummy tuck, skin cancer reconstruction and cosmetic surgery. It’s important to ensure you have a surgeon who not only specializes in the procedure you want, but can also advise you with your best interests in mind. The last place you want to go for a breast reconstruction surgery is a brain surgeon!

What would be the best procedure to fit my concerns?

Before you go in for your consultation, have an idea in mind on what procedure you are hoping to discuss with a surgeon. For example, let’s say you want a breast augmentation and it’s set in your mind that implants are the way to go. On multiple occasions, Dr. White fat grafted for patients instead of using costly implants by extracting fat from other parts of the body and injecting it into the breasts. This means you won’t have to maintain those implants with future surgeries, which can be expensive. (Score!) What’s better than using fat from your own body to enhance an area that you feel could use a little extra? Get yourself a surgeon who personalizes your treatment plan to fit your wants and needs.  

How much recovery time is necessary for my procedure?

Recovery time varies depending on what procedure you and your doctor choose. We all like to prepare our summer bodies in advance, right everyone? Well, if you need a little help and want to consider a surgery like a tummy tuck, you’re looking at up to six weeks (on average) of recovery time. Plan ahead and get these surgeries done when you have down time and can focus on recovery. If you have exciting summer plans next year, you’ll want to get any significant procedures done now, when you can rest during fall and winter!   

How can I feel more comfortable with surgery?

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a plastic surgeon is, am I comfortable with them? Surgery can expose vulnerabilities, and it’s crucial your doctor makes you feel at ease. Dr. White wants to answer all your questions and make sure you walk away from your consultation confident and comfortable with what’s to come. Getting to know your surgeon is like dating, in that a first date might be a little awkward, but it can spark a great relationship moving forward. Use your consultation to discover your compatibility and decide if a second date is worth it!

The most important thing to remember is to choose a doctor who is going to look out for you and keep your best interests in mind. Surgery is an intimate and personal experience, but with a proper relationship, you can put those worries aside. Remember, all of you q-ties are beautiful and beauty shouldn’t fit a mold!