There are many questions to ask the surgeon but the most important aspect is about safety, so grill the surgeon as much as you need until you feel reassured. If you don’t understand something don’t be afraid to say so – remember this is your body/teeth/life and what this surgeon does will remain with you for the rest of your life so make sure you have all of your questions answered. You are entitled to choose which surgeon performs your procedure, and not just be given whoever is available on that particular day.
Some suggested questions include:
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What professional memberships, training and qualifications do they hold? (Afterwards go to the relevant association’s website to verify that their name is on the list);
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Have the surgeon and anaesthetist worked together before? This is critical as they build up a relationship and can better monitor the patient’s needs;
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Will the anaesthetist perform a pre operative evaluation? And a post operative evaluation?
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Will the anaesthetist take into account the patient’s wishes (provided it is safe to do so);
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How much recovery time will the procedure entail?
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How long will you be hospitalised?
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How soon after the operation you can fly home? and
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Ask to see credentials and ‘before and after’ pictures.
As far as checking the rest of the medical team, remember that a good surgeon will only work with a good anaesthetist and in a good hospital/clinic - so the most important part is finding a good surgeon!
A UK site, Private Healthcare UK, has an extensive checklist of questions to ask your doctor before an operation.
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