Knowing when to say ‘No’
There are many reasons why people consider cosmetic surgery – and as medical professionals, it is our job to ensure that you are doing it for the right ones.
This means that you truly understand the risks of your chosen procedure, you are realistic about the results you are hoping to achieve and importantly, you are under no pressure from anyone else. That beautiful new cleavage or straighter nose you have in mind, it’s for you and nobody else.
In this blog, we sat down with expert cosmetic surgeon Mr Sulaiman, to ask why it is so important to assess our customer’s suitability for surgery beforehand:
1. Why do you think it’s important that you assess candidate suitability first?
I think that the consultation is the most important step in the journey of the patient. During this stage of the process, I need to be able to be 100% sure that the candidate is suitable for surgery because:
- – I can understand exactly what the patient wants so I am able to tailor the treatment/s accordingly for the look they are hoping for- always being transparent about what is achievable.
- – Ensure that they are medically fit and have good overall health.
- – Be sure that they are emotionally ready, are doing it for their own reasons and are under no pressure to proceed by their partner, family or friends.
2. How do you ascertain if someone is suitable for cosmetic surgery?
The consultation with the patient is so important to understand why they are looking for specific treatments. It is a joint discussion where we talk through the options available, the procedures themselves, the risks involved and ensuring that expectations are realistic.
I encourage patients to come with family members or their friends as that helps a lot. We also ask for a GP letter as occasionally some patients do not disclose their full medical or psychological history.
3. How often do you have to say ‘no’ to someone?
I say ‘no’ to around 25% of prospective customers – 5% are not suitable for medical or emotional reasons whereas 20% are not suitable candidates for the procedure that they are asking for.
For instance, if someone is looking for liposuction to correct loose skin or would like breast implants to rectify droopy breast then they are asking for the wrong treatment, so they are not suitable. I will offer them the best options to correct their concerns and if they are not convinced, then I will not proceed any further as I need to be completely sure that they are happy and that the procedure is right for them.
4. What are some of the reasons why you would deem someone unsuitable?
Patients with unrealistic expectations are 100% not suitable for the procedure they have in mind, for example, if a patient is asking for a face lift in order to look the same age as his/her son or daughter! It’s so important to have realistic expectations and for surgeons to be transparent about what results can be expected following the treatment or procedure.
5. Who is a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?
A medically fit and emotionally sound patient who knows what they want is the best candidate – 75% of patients fit the above criteria.
Meet Mr Sulaiman
Our expert surgeon Mr Sulaiman’s specialist areas include some of our most popular cosmetic surgeries including breast augmentation, breast reduction, and post weight loss surgery procedures including tummy tucks and liposuction.
Start your cosmetic surgery journey with us…
Here at The Hospital Group, we are here to guide you through every step, in fact, all of our cosmetic surgery procedures come inclusive of 3 years aftercare as standard.
Start your cosmetic surgery journey by booking a free consultation with absolutely no obligation, at your local clinic to find out more about us and procedure you are interested in.