You have finally decided to get cosmetic surgery and will be meeting with your preferred surgeon for the initial consultation. You need to come up with a list of important questions to ask, so that you put your mind at ease regarding the upcoming surgery. Here are 5 questions that you should definitely consider asking your surgeon.

1. Are you board certified? This seems like an obvious thing but you do need to ask it. Further, you need to confirm with the board and find out more information about the particular surgeon you are interested in working with. A certified surgeon will have completed proper training, will have the necessary experience and will also be committed to ensuring that his or her clients are safe. By answering in the affirmative, your surgeon will allay all your fears regarding these things.
2. Do you perform this procedure often? It is not enough for the surgeon to be board certified; he or she also needs to perform the procedure you want often enough to give you confidence in his or her ability. You want a good outcome and practice makes perfect. Most cosmetic surgeons have specializations so it may be best to find a surgeon who specializes in the procedure that you are interested in. He or she will have worked with a wide variety of patients and also with a wide variety of body types and will have experience with the most recent techniques in this field.
3. What are my anesthesia options? The anesthesia used will depend largely on the procedure you will be undergoing and also your needs as an individual. By knowing ahead of time, you can prepare yourself mentally and physically for the procedure. Discussing this candidly with the plastic surgeon will also put your mind at ease. Local anesthesia is used for less complex procedures and usually has a shorter recovery time. General anesthesia is used for procedures that are more complex or when one is opting for multiple procedures at the same time.
4. What can I expect during recovery? Most people are so happy about getting the procedure done that they forget to ask about the recovery. Understanding both the procedure and what comes thereafter is very important. If the recovery is long and painful, you will need to time the procedure properly so as not to interfere with your work or school schedule. Find out how much time off work you will need. Also, find out if you will be able to take care of your children, work out or enjoy other normal activities. Depending on the procedure, recovery could take a few days or it could be a few weeks before you can be active again.
5. How much will the procedure cost me in total? Most elective surgery tends to be an out-of-pocket expense. It is therefore important to have the figures upfront. The costs will likely include cost of materials used, expenses for the hospital stay and operating room, anesthesia and anesthesiologist fees, surgeon’s fees and more. Knowing the costs ahead of time will help you plan financially.