The relationship with your plastic surgeon starts at your consultation. Should you decide to proceed with surgery, the relationship does not end after you have had your surgery - it continues for not only the follow-up visits, but for years to come.
With the heightened awareness regarding breast implants, breast implant illness, BIA-ALCL and the associated risks involved, now more than ever your relationship with your plastic surgeon is even more important.
After I had breast implant surgery 10 years ago, I never heard from my plastic surgeon ever again after my follow up appointments even though I continued to remain a patient at her skincare clinic. The plastic surgeon's office had all my current contact information including email, mobile #, and I was still a client.
My implants were on the recent Allergan recall list - I had the Natrelle 410 textured teardrop implants under the muscle. The lot #/catalogue #'s were actually there right on the official recall documentation.
I NEVER once heard from my plastic surgeon or her office staff - not in person while I was at her clinic, not a phone call, not an email, not even a letter. I also did not receive anything from Allergan.
I actually stumbled upon the Allergan recall notice on the journey to understand why my health was constantly declining as each year passed.
Be proactive about your health
Reflecting upon my experience made me realize just how important it is to take control of your own personal health. Plastic surgery is a booming business worldwide and the clients quite often ended up being merely transactions. As soon as you walk out that door after your surgery, another client walks in. It's a revolving door.
What I have learned is how extremely important it is to ensure your relationship with your plastic surgeon is mutual. It is, and should be, an ongoing relationship - but this can only happen if you initiate the type of relationship you wish to have with your plastic surgeon.
My advice for maintaining your relationship with your plastic surgeon after surgery?
Always keep your contact details updated with your plastic surgeon's office i.e. address, mobile #, home #, email address
Schedule yearly checkups with your plastic surgeon. This not only gives you an opportunity to talk about your own personal well being as it relates to your particular surgery, but your plastic surgeon is also able to tune better into post-surgery results, outcomes, complications, etc. The plastic surgeon will also remember to keep you updated on any updated information regarding medical devices, your surgery type, etc.
Sign up to your plastic surgeon's email newsletters and/or blog notifications so you won't miss out on important notices.
Ask your plastic surgeon to have his/her office keep you notified of any recalls, etc. associated with your type of surgery.
Ask your plastic surgeon about related databases, warranties, etc. and where you can register for information specific to your surgery.
Encourage your plastic surgeon to listen to you should you feel that you are experiencing complications related to your surgery.
The only way we can keep our plastic surgeons informed is to play an active role and maintain a strong relationship through honest communication. Let's keep our plastic surgeon's accountable.
All posts are intended strictly for educational purposes. It is not intended to make any representations or warranties about the outcome of any procedure. It is not a substitute for a thorough in-person consultation with a medical professional. If you have questions about your personal medical situation, please call your healthcare provider.
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