There’s a book that’s been on the bestseller lists for a few years now called The Five People You Meet in Heaven. Nobody put me in charge of these people that you’ll encounter in the afterlife, so let me borrow the theme and talk about the four people you’ll meet on your trip to the plastic surgeon’s office–and how they can be important to you. We’ll take them in the order that you’rre likely to encounter them.
* The patient in the waiting room. Yes, even a plastic surgeon has a waiting room, although you’re not likely to be overwhelmed with other patients like you would be in an emergency room or general clinic waiting room. The lady sitting across from you is probably not too different from you: She has decided that she would feel more confident about herself by having a little body work done. While you might not want to talk openly about why you’re there, especially if it’s for something a bit more private, such as labiaplasty, there is something you can gain from this other patient. Specifically, find out if she has ever used this plastic surgeon before. If so, her opinion of the surgeon and her work becomes a valuable part of your research that will ultimately help you decide if this is the surgeon for you.
* The receptionist. Most plastic surgeons will have someone at or near the waiting room who is a valuable fount of information. Specifically, talk with her about such things as payment options (Is there some kind of installment lan or some place you can get financial help?). This is also who you’ll ultimately see about making your appointment.
* The anesthesiologist. It’s likely you might not meet him until the day of your procedure. But that’s not because he’s not important. In fact, if you’re having a procedure done that requires you to be put to sleep, it’s his job to make sure you feel nothing and that you eventually wake up (a nice bonus there). Many people forget about this person as they’re asking questions aboutthe surgeon. Not smart! During your investigation, make sure that a fully qualified and credentialed person will be there handling the anesthesiologist chores. Your comfort and yes, your health, depend on it.
* And of course, the plastic surgeon. She’s the one who will be performing the procedure, so you need to be prepared for your meeting with her. Prior to your first meeting , you need to have written up a list of questions. These questions should cover her credentials, her experience in this field, her prices, and how the two of you together should proceed. You can never have too many questions, so be ready for this all-important first meeting.
Take advantage of the information each of these four people provides and you’ll be better prepared for your plastic surgery.
