Anxious to get in for a plastic surgery consultation? Why patience for patients is a virtue

They say that patience is a virtue, but when you are eager to enhance your features, patience tends to take a flying leap out the window. It's a fact. In-demand board-certified plastic surgeons in in-demand areas may have packed schedules. Packed schedules mean you may have a bit of a wait before you can get in for your initial consultation.

While your first instinct may be to find another surgeon, it may be best to take stock of the situation and be patient. We get it. That may be easier said than done, but there is a reason that the adage rings true. Patience is a virtue that may help you get the results you want.

Why is it important to wait for a consultation?

It is vital for patients to research the procedure they are interested in and the plastic surgeon they are considering to perform the surgery. Part of that research is meeting with the surgeon and walking through the procedure with them.

"It is important to not rush the consultation process for a variety of reasons," said Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS. "While the consumer can have a basic idea of the procedure, going through the consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help to become even more educated about the procedure."

You want to engage with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can help you achieve your desired result and educate you about what procedures may help you reach realistic aesthetic goals. Skilled physicians also take the time during the consultation process to give you a better idea of what to expect from surgery and recovery. You get the entire picture. The last thing you want is to find someone who wants to get you in and out for a quick dollar.

"I think the most important reason not to rush the consultation process or hastily commit to whichever surgeon happens to be available immediately is because the price for a revision will be much higher both financially and physically," said Umbareen Mahmood, MD.

Experience and credentials matter. That's why seeing a board-certified plastic surgeon may take some time, especially in highly populated or in-demand areas. However, waiting can be worth it. You want to work with someone with the knowledge, skills and education to help you.

Sometimes, it helps to change your perspective. Why is it taking so long to get an appointment? It could be because positive word of mouth has drawn you, just like countless others, to a qualified and responsive plastic surgeon.

What can you do while you wait?

Thankfully, you don't have to sit idle while you wait for your consultation day to arrive. There are proactive steps you can take before your appointment to prepare you for what's ahead and to make the most of it.

"Equally important is feeling comfortable with the plastic surgeon and their staff," said Dr. Hadeed. "Reading patient reviews can give the consumer insight into other patient's experiences with the plastic surgeon. If someone cannot get in right away for a consultation, researching the plastic surgeon and the procedure of interest can help educate the consumer and make them feel more comfortable when they finally do have their consultation."

Take the time to think about what you want to change and what procedures may help you reach your desired look. Get online and do some old-fashioned research. Social media and influencer sites may help point you in new directions but understand influencers and online personalities may be compensated for advertising particular products or discussing specific procedures.

Be discerning. Read reviews, visit physician websites and research legitimate medical publications for information to help you prepare and make informed decisions about your health and appearance. A good tip for finding a plastic surgeon who is board certified is to use the ASPS Find a Surgeon tool.

Dr. Mahmood offered patients several tips to help them pass the time and prepare for their initial consultation.

"If a patient can't get in right away, things they can do to prepare for their visit are to identify what areas they are looking to address, what their budget is, their schedule or timeframe for a procedure, doing preliminary background research on their procedure of interest from reputable sites such as ASPS," said Dr. Mahmood. "For procedures such as breast augmentation, mastopexy or reduction, it's helpful for patients to bring in 'wish pics' of how they would like their breasts to look."

Plastic surgery is a transformative journey that you should never rush. Sometimes, that means waiting. You want your physician to take the time to listen to you, understand your goals and evaluate which procedures can help give you the results you want to achieve.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.