Questions to Ask Before Getting a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck can give you a flatter, more toned abdomen and return your body to its more youthful, ideal shape. Your skin naturally loses its elasticity over time, and as you age, you may find that diet and exercise are no longer enough to produce a toned midsection. In this blog post, Albany cosmetic surgeon Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha discusses important questions to ask before scheduling a tummy tuck surgery.      

Questions for the Doctor  

Before you have any type of surgery, you should feel comfortable with your doctor and be familiar with his background and credentials. Here are three important questions to ask your surgeon during your tummy tuck consultation:  

• Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? Beware of boards that sound similar but may not represent the same level of competence.
• How many years of plastic surgery training and post residency experience do you have?
• Do you perform tummy tuck surgeries on a regular basis?

Questions About You 

Aside from confirming your doctor’s credentials, you will want to have a frank discussion with him or her about whether or not a tummy tuck is right for you. Ask your doctor if you are a good candidate for surgery. He may ask you questions regarding your lifestyle, medical background and family history. Always answer questions regarding your candidacy as thoroughly as possible, to ensure your safety. Lastly, be sure to ask your surgeon what to expect from the healing process. Everyone heals differently after surgery, but your surgeon will help you develop a recovery plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have prior to a surgical procedure. These questions are a good basis to begin the conversation. It is also very important to ask to see before-and-after photos of patients who have had the procedure. If the plastic surgeon cannot produce a multitude of good before-and-after patient photos, then you may want to think about having another surgeon do your procedure.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, email or call his Albany plastic surgery practice at (518) 346-3125.