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Plastic Surgery FAQs and Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

When you are evaluating a plastic surgeon, it's important to have all of your questions answered as clearly as possible. The following page features plastic surgery FAQs, as well as a list of questions for you to ask when choosing your plastic surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions

» How do I know if plastic surgery is right for me?

Plastic surgery is not right for everyone. Once you have researched your options, and know the risks and the benefits, Dr. Beckenstein can help you decide if plastic surgery is a good option for you. During your consultation, you will be asked and must inform Dr. Beckenstein of any physical or mental health issues so that he may accurately assess whether you are a good candidate for cosmetic (aesthetic) or reconstructive surgery. This is essential for your overall safety.

» How will I know which procedures are right for me?

Educating yourself about the procedures in which you are interested is the first step to knowing which one is appropriate for you. Dr. Beckenstein has provided this web site to help educate his patients in Birmingham, Alabama and across the nation. Before you decide to see a plastic surgeon, the information you find here on body contouring, breast enhancement, facial plastic surgery, and facial skin rejuvenation procedures will give you a basic understanding of what to expect. At your consultation the final determination will be made by you and Dr. Beckenstein.

» Will my insurance cover cosmetic surgery?

Most insurance policies will not cover procedures which are strictly aesthetic (cosmetic). If you are having a procedure for health reasons, like a breast reduction in order to treat back pain, then your insurance may cover the procedure. Procedures that are deemed "medically necessary" will often be covered by insurance. Your specific insurance carrier will ultimately make this decision.

» How will I pay for my treatment?

We have a dedicated office staff in Birmingham ready to help you understand your insurance coverage and our financing options. After you meet with our plastic surgeon, you will meet with our insurance specialist or financial consultant. All payment options and financial plans will be presented to you and a good plan will be devised for you.

» How much will my procedure cost?

The actual cost of your procedure depends on many factors and will be determined during your initial consultation with our plastic surgeon, Dr. Beckenstein.

» Where will my surgery take place?

Dr. Beckenstein performs all of his surgeries in hospital operating rooms for your safety. For information about this policy, please click here.

» What's the most important thing to consider when choosing a surgeon?

There are many important factors you should consider when choosing a plastic surgeon. Education, certification, and the number of times the plastic surgeon has performed a procedure are all important factors to consider. You should not proceed with a surgery unless you have complete confidence in your surgeon, and you feel comfortable and safe. Here is a list of questions to ask your plastic surgeon before you make a final decision.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

You must have the utmost confidence in the plastic surgeon you choose. In order to gain this trust, there are several things you need to know about the surgeon BEFORE you undergo your procedure. Dr. Beckenstein has created the following list of questions YOU should ask your plastic surgeon:

• Are you board certified?
• By what board? (Make sure it is an ABMS specialty.)
• How long have you been in practice?
• Where did you train?
• Do you have additional fellowship training, and in what specialty?
• How many of these procedures have you done?
• When was the last time you performed one of these procedures?
• How long does it take you to do the surgery?
• What is the average time for that procedure (by plastic surgeons in your area)?
• Where do you operate?
• Is there an overnight stay?
• Who will be giving the anesthesia?
• Who will monitor me during recovery?
• Can I see before and after pictures?
• Can I speak with some of your patients who have had this procedure?
• What are common complications with this procedure?
• Will you personally be taking care of me after my surgery?
• Have you ever had your license or hospital privileges suspended?

For more information about the procedures we offer or to schedule a consultation, contact the office of Birmingham plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Beckenstein today.