You can never ask too many questions, according to Nicolette Picerno, MD.

Not only does Dr. Picerno want her patients to feel comfortable with her as their plastic surgeon, but she wants them to come away more knowledgeable. “For a procedure to be truly successful, patients have to be empowered with the right knowledge to prepare themselves prior to surgery and to take care of themselves afterwards.” Creating realistic expectations is critical. She uses a three-way mirror to illustrate to her patients where incision lines will be along with a computer imaging machine to give patients an even better understanding of their case and how they will look after healing.

Come to your first consultation with questions in hand. Dr. Picerno has found that the patients who are happiest with their surgery are those who have brought questions with them to the appointment along with pictures. Ask your surgeon for his or her credentials and experience. Ask the doctor how many times he/she has performed the surgery. Ask for names of patients you can talk to who have had a similar surgery. Ask the fee. Dr. Picerno recommends that prospective patients wait a few days in between the first consult with a doctor and making their appointment for the procedure. That gives a patient extra time to review the procedure and the risk and rewards. Finally, make sure you “click” with your doctor and that you have a positive interactive relationship with her.