Finding a plastic surgeon to perform your procedure can sometimes feel confusing. There are many different types of surgeons out there, as well as different types of clinics, that offer a variety of procedures.
The most important fact to keep in mind is that not all cosmetic surgeons are plastic surgeons. To be a plastic surgeon requires years of post-graduate training, and therefore a much higher level of experience than others. To select a plastic surgeon, you will first want to make sure that the surgeon in question does in fact have the right qualifications.
Step one: Look at the surgeon’s qualifications and experience
In Australia, a qualified plastic surgeon will have needed to become a doctor, before completing at least five years of study and training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). Under current law, anyone who is simply a doctor can legally perform cosmetic surgery and label themselves as a cosmetic surgeon, so it is important to be able to tell less qualified doctors apart from highly qualified plastic surgeons.
Once you have found a clinic near you, take a look at the clinic’s “about” or “meet the team” page. Then, read up on the main surgeon’s qualifications and experience. Some key green flags to look out for are if they have been awarded Fellowship from the Royal Australian College of Surgeons in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (FRACS), and are specifically labelled as a Plastic Surgeon, Specialist Plastic Surgeon or even Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.
It’s also a great sign if the plastic surgeon has additional significant achievements. For example, Dr Sawhney, director of Sculpted Clinic on the Gold Coast, is also the Director of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Gold Coast University and Robina Hospitals. Demonstrating a passion to educate future plastic surgeons can show you how dedicated the surgeon.
Step two: Closely read the procedure page of your interest
If you’re interested in undergoing a particular cosmetic procedure, you should closely read the procedure page on your chosen clinic’s website. To find a plastic surgeon to perform the procedure that you are after, look at the surgical techniques and methods that they typically use.
Generally, the plastic surgeons will aim to use the most advanced techniques that deliver the most effective outcome. On the procedure page, there should be a description of the method used and why it delivers good results. The description should also describe how the procedure can be tailored to the needs of each individual patient, as cosmetic surgery shouldn’t have a one-size-fits-all approach.
If you like the particular approach that a surgeon has to the procedure you are interested in, you will be one step closer towards finding a plastic surgeon for you.
Step three: View the surgeon’s before and after gallery
To get an idea of the results that a surgeon can achieve, take a look at some procedure before and after photos. While you should keep in mind that other patients’ results should never be used as a direct reference for your potential results, as every patient is different and procedures are highly personalised, visual evidence of a surgeon’s capabilities can be very helpful. You can view our before and after gallery here.
For a better idea of what you can expect for your own results, you will need a consultation with the surgeon. Communicating what you would like to change, any concerns you may have and any factors about your current lifestyle that could impact recovery will allow your surgeon to assess your features and determine what can be achieved.
Step four: Contact the surgeon or their clinic
Next, get clear about what you want from your procedure and make an enquiry. Make a list of questions about the procedure and what may be required and give the surgeon or their team a chance to inform you of what you can expect.
This can be a helpful step before making an appointment for an in-person consultation, as you may like to ask specific questions about the surgeon, their approach to the procedure and their experience or qualifications.
Step five: Book your consultation
The final step in finding a plastic surgeon for you is to meet with a surgeon in person. A consultation allows you to discuss your concerns, ideal results, lifestyle and health factors, which will help the surgeon to outline a personal procedure plan. This includes individually tailored procedure steps to achieve your desired results, preparation and recovery instructions that take your lifestyle and any health factors into consideration and being informed about potential risks and complications of the procedure.
An in-person consultation is also important to see whether or not you feel comfortable and supported by the surgeon. A plastic surgeon will make you feel understood and empowered, taking a patient-centred approach. It is important to feel comfortable with your surgeon, as, not only are they going to be performing your procedure, but they will be your point of contact should you need support during recovery. You should feel confident that you can contact the surgeon or their clinic if you are ever in need or should you have any questions after the procedure.
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Sawhney
As a well-established and respected plastic surgeon, Dr Raja Sawhney specialises in reconstructive surgery and performs a variety of cosmetic procedures at Sculpted Clinic.
With vast knowledge, extensive experience and a high level of skill in complex breast surgery, he has refined advanced techniques that can enhance results. Passionate about improving the lives of patients with outstanding procedure results, he has gained a high level of experience in general, paediatric, orthopaedic, vascular, transplant and cardiac surgery.
Taking a patient-centred approach, he strives to make patients feel comfortable and confident throughout their journey, understanding their needs and concerns.
To learn more about Dr Raja Sawhney, head to the Our Team page. If you think you’re ready to book a consultation for surgery, contact us today.
