What happens at your first plastic surgery consultation and how to make the most of it

What you should bring

A little preparation greatly improves how much you get out of the first appointment:

• A list of your regular medication, including supplements and contraceptives.
• Relevant medical history: previous surgeries, allergies, chronic conditions, pregnancies, breastfeeding.
• If it is for breast surgery, a recent ultrasound or mammogram if you have one.
• If it is facial, old photos (10-20 years back) that help understand what has changed.
• Reference images, not as a literal "I want this", but so the surgeon understands what kind of result appeals to you.
• Your questions written down. During the consultation it is very easy to forget half of them if you have not noted them.

What exactly happens

A serious first consultation is usually structured in four blocks:

• Clinical interview: what brings you in, what bothers you, what you expect and since when. It is the most important part: if the surgeon does not listen to you here, the rest will not work.
• Physical examination: examination of the area to be treated, assessment of tissues, symmetry and skin quality. Without a physical examination there is no real diagnosis.
• Clinical photographs and, where appropriate, simulation or visual references.
• Treatment plan and quote: recommended technique, alternatives, risks, expected recovery and an itemised written quote.

A reasonable time for all of this is between 30 and 60 minutes. A 10-minute "consultation" rarely allows for serious medical work.

What to ask (and how to listen to the answer)

These are the questions that separate a useful consultation from a superficial one:

• "Which technique do you recommend for me, and why that one and not another?" A good answer is justified with anatomy, not marketing.
• "What alternatives exist and why do you rule them out in my case?" If "there are no alternatives", be wary.
• "What risks and complications does this procedure carry?" They should be mentioned openly and naturally. Risk-free surgery does not exist.
• "What does a realistic recovery look like for my type of work?"
• "What does the quote include and what does it not include?"
• "What is the postoperative follow-up and for how long?"
• "Who will operate on me, where and with what type of anaesthesia?"
• "What happens if I am not satisfied with the result?"

What you should NOT expect from a first consultation

• Being operated on the same day. You need blood work, an electrocardiogram and a reasonable period to make your decision.
• Sales pressure. Phrases like "this price only if you sign today" are a red flag, not an opportunity.
• Guarantees of a perfect result. Any serious professional talks about achievable goals, not absolute guarantees.
• Surgical decisions handled by non-medical staff. The surgical plan is set by the person who will operate.
• Information being withheld. Implant brand and model, where the operating theatre is, who administers the anaesthesia: all of that must be available if you ask.

Frequently asked questions

Sources and references

• NHS: before you have a cosmetic procedure — questions to ask and how to decide
• ISAPS: guidelines for patients — safety and choosing your surgeon
• SECPRE — Spanish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

Dr. Claudia Liuzza

Aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon. Over 18 years of experience. Registered with COMB · SECPRE · ISAPS.

This content is for information purposes. Every clinic organises the first consultation differently; always confirm the conditions before your visit.