How to Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon: 6 Must-Ask Questions
Plastic surgery is not simply about changing how someone looks. It’s about working with human tissue, anatomy and aesthetic balance all at once. And the difference between a good result and a disappointing one often lies in one overlooked decision: who performs the surgery. There’s a growing misconception that any doctor offering cosmetic treatments is equipped to perform plastic surgery. But the truth is, there’s a clear and important difference between a general physician, a dermatologist, a cosmetologist and a board-trained plastic surgeon. Choosing the right surgeon isn’t about popularity or price. It’s about safety, outcome and trust. Here are six essential questions to ask before making that decision. This is where most patients get misled. Many doctors may advertise aesthetic treatments but not all of them are plastic surgeons. A qualified plastic surgeon undergoes years of formal training in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery after completing their MBBS and general surgery. In India, the gold standard is an M.Ch. or DNB in Plastic Surgery from a recognised medical institution. Patients should ask: What specific training do you have in plastic surgery? Are you registered with a recognised medical board or council? This isn’t about “catching” someone out. It’s about ensuring your procedure is handled with surgical precision, medical expertise and ethical clarity. Plastic surgery covers a wide range of procedures including rhinoplasty, liposuction, gynecomastia correction, tummy tucks, breast reconstruction and facial surgery. Experience is not general. A surgeon may be highly skilled in body contouring but may perform facial surgeries less often. What matters is how frequently they perform the procedure you’re considering and how familiar they are with its complications, revisions and outcomes in different body types. Ask: How often do you perform this procedure? What types of patients have you worked with? Look for depth of experience, not just a list of services on a website. Plastic surgery isn’t just science. It’s also art. Each surgeon develops a unique aesthetic sense, an eye for proportion, harmony and subtlety. You don’t have to agree with every result they've created. But you should feel confident that their style aligns with yours. That’s why it's important to view multiple before-and-after cases, especially those that closely match your own goals or body type. Don’t just look for dramatic transformations. Look for consistency, balance and respect for natural features. Any surgical procedure carries risk. But a good surgeon will have systems in place to reduce risk at every step: A licensed, well-equipped surgical facility Qualified anesthesia personnel Trained support staff Transparent post-operative protocols Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Patients heal differently and good surgeons tailor their aftercare instructions and follow-ups accordingly. Ask: What is the expected recovery timeline? How many follow-ups are included? What happens if there’s a concern after surgery? Safety isn’t just about surgery day. It’s about everything before and after too. Plastic surgery is an investment in your body and confidence. But it should never come with hidden charges or vague breakdowns. A responsible clinic will share: The full cost of the procedure Whether anaesthesia, facility and garments are included What’s covered in case a correction is needed later The goal is not cheap surgery. The goal is clear, ethical, value-based care. Beyond qualifications, technique or photos this one matters more than most people realise. Your consultation is not just about pricing or procedure details. It’s about comfort, trust and whether you feel heard. Are your concerns respected? Are risks explained clearly not glossed over? Do they guide you or rush you? You should never feel pushed toward a procedure you’re unsure of. The right surgeon will never need to sell confidence. They’ll help you build it. Plastic surgery isn’t about quick fixes or trends. It’s a personal journey that affects how you feel, move and present yourself for years to come. Choose a surgeon who is medically qualified, procedurally experienced and professionally honest. But also choose someone who understands your expectations and respects your body, not just your booking. When you ask the right questions you’re not just protecting your results. You’re protecting your long-term well-being. Dr. Sangeetha Jayaraman (M.B.B.S, D.N.B, M.Ch Plastic Surgery) leads our surgical expertise with over nine years of experience in plastic and cosmetic surgery. Her focus lies in breast and body contouring procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks and breast surgeries. She is also skilled in microsurgery, hair restoration and non-surgical aesthetic treatments. Dr. Sangeetha’s patient-first approach and clinical precision reflect INARA Healthcare’s commitment to safety, results and ethical care.1. Are they a qualified and certified plastic surgeon, not just a doctor offering cosmetic procedures?
2. How experienced are they in the specific procedure you're considering?
3. Do you connect with their aesthetic sense and treatment approach?
4. What’s their approach to safety, recovery and follow-up care?
5. Are they transparent about cost and what’s included in it?
6. How do they make you feel during consultation?
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