The Consultation Process
The consultation process is an important step in reaching your goal of esthetic improvement through rhinoplasty surgery. To derive maximum benefit from the consultation process, there are certain elements that need careful consideration.
Define Your Goals
The first and most important step is to define your goals and determine which changes you would like to obtain. To achieve this, there are two factors to consider: first, not all modifications that can be performed should be performed; second, the concept and perception of beauty differs greatly from one person to another (see the nasal esthetic). It is therefore important to define your own perception of what is undesirable about your nose and what you wish to change.
Do Your Homework
The more informed you are, the more likely you are to have realistic goals and expectations, which will then lead to a more positive experience and outcome. Researching rhinoplasty is therefore very important. The fact that you are currently visiting this website is an indication that you are engaged in the process of educating yourself about rhinoplasty. While there is an enormous amount of information on the Internet, it is not the only source. Speaking to family and friends who have had rhinoplasty is often very informative and adds a human dimension obtained from a trustworthy source. After having done your research, it may be helpful to draft a list of questions you may have for the doctor. This helps you get the most out of the consultation process.
However, caution is warranted when conducting research. Although most of the information on the Internet may be correct, it is not subject to a verification process. As for family or a friend’s experience, it may not necessarily represent the experience you would have because it is highly dependant on the individual, the surgeon, etc. Therefore, the information obtained should be considered preliminary, until you meet the doctor during the consultation, verify the facts, obtain expert advice, and discuss all your questions.
What About Free Consultations?
While most physicians will charge a fee, some offer free consultations. However, the expression “you get what you pay for” frequently applies. If the free consultation does not include an encounter with the doctor, or a limited one with most of the time spent with an assistant, you may not receive accurate information regarding your concerns and questions. The reality is that most doctors who possess expertise and experience will require compensation for their time. The cost of the consultation, therefore, should not be considered as an obstacle. Rather, the consultation should be regarded as an important educational tool to obtain information directly from the surgeon to supplement or corroborate information gained from the Internet or other sources. This is an opportunity to ask your questions, get the real facts, and evaluate your surgeon (see choosing your surgeon).
The Outcome of the Consultation
Once the consultation is done, it is useful to reflect on the process. In doing so, it is important to ask yourself certain questions. Were you able to meet the surgeon? Were all your questions answered and your concerns addressed or did the consultation feel rushed? Did you feel comfortable, and did you establish a good rapport with the doctor or did you feel pressured? Was there a sales-like or commercial feel to the consultation? Did your goals match those of the surgeon’s or did he/she strongly recommend very different changes or additional procedures you had not asked for?
If you would like to set up a consultation please contact our office.