Choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure is a big decision, and finding the right plastic surgeon is key to ensuring you achieve your desired results safely and effectively. During your first consultation at Dr Hertess Plastic Surgery, it's important to ask the right questions to fully understand the process, risks, and expected outcomes.
Dr. Isolde Hertess of Dr Hertess Plastic Surgery, based on the Gold Coast, has expertise in body contouring and takes a unique female-focused approach to her work. With over 27 years of experience she offers a personalised and compassionate experience tailored to each patient's needs.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 essential questions you should ask Dr Hertess to ensure you're well-informed and confident in your decision. By preparing ahead of time, you’ll be able to make a more educated choice and feel assured that you’re in expert hands.
When choosing a plastic surgeon, it's crucial to understand their experience, training, and qualifications to ensure you're in safe hands. A highly skilled surgeon with extensive training in the specific procedure you're considering can greatly impact the outcome and reduce the risk of complications.
It's important to ask about their board certifications, years of practice, and whether they specialise in the type of surgery you're interested in. A well-qualified plastic surgeon should be transparent about their credentials and happy to share before-and-after photos of previous patients, as this will give you confidence in their ability to deliver the results you're seeking. Understanding these factors is a key aspect when deciding what questions to ask your plastic surgeon.
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A good way to assess a plastic surgeon’s skill and the quality of their work is by reviewing before-and-after photos of previous patients. These photos offer a clear visual representation of the surgeon’s abilities and give you an idea of what results you can expect from your procedure.
When asking for these images, be sure to request examples that are similar to the procedure you're considering. This will help you determine if their aesthetic aligns with your goals. A reputable and experienced plastic surgeon should be happy to provide these photos and discuss the results with you, as transparency is key in building trust and ensuring you feel confident in your choice.
It’s crucial to ask Dr. Isolde Hertess about the risks and complications that could arise from your chosen procedure, as this helps you make a fully informed decision. Every surgical procedure carries certain risks, and understanding these risks beforehand allows you to assess whether you are comfortable with the potential outcomes.
By discussing these details with your surgeon, you can gain a clear understanding of the specific complications associated with your procedure, such as infection, scarring, or healing issues. A good surgeon will be transparent about these risks and will explain how they can be minimised, giving you peace of mind and ensuring you're prepared for what to expect.
Asking Dr. Hertess about the potential outcomes of your chosen plastic surgery is an essential step in setting realistic expectations and ensuring you're aligned with the results you hope to achieve. Every patient is unique, and while your surgeon can provide general expectations, understanding how your specific body type, health, and aesthetic goals may influence the outcome is crucial.
Dr. Hertess, with her expertise in body contouring, can give you a clear idea of what results are achievable, as well as any limitations. This discussion will help you visualise what you can expect post-surgery and give you the confidence to move forward, knowing you're well-informed about the possible results, both positive and realistic.
It’s important to ask Dr. Hertess what your specific plastic surgery procedure will entail to ensure you fully understand the process from start to finish. Knowing the details of your procedure—such as the steps involved, the anaesthesia used, the expected duration of the surgery, and any follow-up care required—will help you feel more prepared and less anxious about the experience.
Dr. Hertess will be able to explain how the procedure will be tailored to your individual needs, as well as any special techniques she may use. This conversation will also give you the opportunity to ask about the recovery process, including potential downtime and any post-surgery precautions you’ll need to follow. Being clear on what the procedure involves will ensure you’re comfortable and confident every step of the way.
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Asking Dr. Hertess about the recovery process and timeline for your plastic surgery is a crucial part of preparing for the procedure. Understanding how long it will take to heal, what to expect during recovery, and any potential discomfort or restrictions will help you plan accordingly.
Knowing what to expect during your recovery will allow you to set realistic expectations, ensure a smoother healing process, and feel confident in your decision to proceed with the surgery.
Knowing about the potential scarring you may have after your surgery will help you understand what to expect and how to manage your post-operative care. Dr. Hertess can explain where the incisions will be made, how visible the scars are likely to be, and the techniques used to minimise scarring.
She may also provide advice on how to care for your scars during the healing process, including the use of topical treatments or recommendations for specific products that can help reduce their appearance.
Knowing what to expect in terms of scarring will allow you to feel more prepared and ensure you are fully informed about the long-term results of your surgery. This conversation is vital in setting realistic expectations and ensuring you’re comfortable with your cosmetic outcome. Remember, every body is different, and your healing journey will be unique to you, not like another patient's.
It’s important to ask Dr. Hertess where your surgery will take place, such as the specific hospital or surgical facility, to ensure it meets the necessary safety and quality standards. Understanding the location of your procedure will give you peace of mind knowing that it’s being performed in a fully accredited, well-equipped facility with experienced medical staff.
Dr. Hertess will be able to provide you with details about the hospital’s credentials, the surgical team, and the overall environment, helping you feel confident that your procedure will be carried out in the best possible setting. This information is key to ensuring your safety, comfort and peace of mind throughout the entire process.
It’s essential to ask Dr. Hertess for a detailed breakdown of all costs involved in your procedure to avoid any surprises later on. Understanding the full financial picture, including surgeon fees, anaesthesia costs, hospital charges, and any post-surgery care, will help you plan your budget and ensure transparency throughout the process.
Dr. Hertess will provide you with a clear fee structure, so you know exactly what to expect. This conversation is vital for making an informed decision, ensuring you’re comfortable with both the financial and medical aspects of your surgery.
This can vary depending on the nature of the procedure and is an important query in your Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon. The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) is a government-funded scheme that subsidises the cost of medically necessary procedures and appointments for Australian citizens.
However, Medicare typically does not cover cosmetic surgery, such as breast augmentation, breast lifts, or removal of implants, as these are considered elective and not essential for health. Medicare will generally only cover surgeries that are deemed medically necessary or reconstructive.
The key factor in determining whether you’re eligible for any coverage is whether your procedure is considered functionally necessary or aesthetic. Be sure to ask Dr. Hertess for clarity on this, as understanding the distinction between medically necessary surgery (which may be covered under strict criteria) and purely cosmetic surgery (which usually isn't) will help you plan financially.
Refer back to this article whenever you're unsure about "what to ask your surgeon" before booking your initial consultation. Being well-prepared will help you make informed decisions about your plastic or cosmetic surgery journey with Dr. Hertess. Ready to take the next step? Book your consultation here and start your aesthetic journey with confidence.
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