Sometimes, getting a second medical opinion makes a critical difference in making the right medical decision about plastic surgery, Dr. Joel Aronowitz says.
When Do You Need to Get a Second Opinion?
“Second opinions are commonplace in plastic surgery today,” attests Joel Aronowitz MD. “Plastic surgery is a major life decision, at least as big as buying a house or getting a new car. It’s never a bad idea to consult different plastic surgeons in different medical practices to understand what you are getting and your reasonable expectations for the procedure.”
One study at the famed Mayo Clinic found that 66 percent of patients were given a slightly different diagnosis when they sought a second opinion about medical issues. Another study at King’s College in London found that how doctors respond to self-image and beauty questions has much to do with the patients they see all day.
In other words, you may have to shop around to find a plastic surgeon with the same view of your potential beauty. But you must also listen carefully when the doctor tells you what to expect from the surgery. Here are four situations where consulting a second plastic surgeon is usually a good idea.
When plastic surgery corrects damage done by the cancer?
Plastic surgery for cancer requires close consultation with the oncologist, Dr. Aronowitz advises. Your plastic surgeon will want to see your radiology images after radiologists and pathology reports have reviewed them after pathologists have worked them up. They will almost certainly ask for input from your primary care provider.
In correcting the damage done by cancer, treating cancer comes first. There are many situations in which your plastic surgeon will be part of your team for treating cancer, especially if you are seeking restorative treatment along with a mastectomy.
When is there a non-surgical option?
Sometimes, changes to your appearance don’t have to be surgical. At the Cleveland Clinic, for example, many patients elect to have non-surgical face lifts that don’t require the major incisions involved in traditional facelifts. There are also non-surgical alternatives to rhinoplasty (correction of aesthetic issues of the nose) and scarring.
Seeking a second opinion can help you find the intervention you want in the time frame that works for you. Two plastic surgeons may be equally skilled but have expertise and experience in different procedures.
When the outcome is unclear?
Plastic surgery is both an art and a science. There are conditions with a range of outcomes. Having a second doctor explain what to expect when the outcome is uncertain never hurts.
When the patient is your child?
It’s not unusual for children with a prominent, disturbing facial feature to want plastic surgery as soon as their families can afford it. Still, confirming that a given procedure is best for a growing child is important.
When else should patients seek the opinion of a second plastic surgeon? Dr. Aronowitz advises patients to seek second opinions when they aren’t feeling peace of mind about a surgical intervention. A second doctor can ensure the patient receives the best treatment possible.
