Dr Kayle, Founder of Dr Kayle Aesthetics Clinic, Dubai discusses how to pick the right plastic surgeon
Q. There are so many plastic surgery clinics in the UAE, how can I decide which plastic surgeon to choose?
With the popularity of social media and celebrity culture not showing any signs of abating, it is little wonder that recent studies show the average person is more likely to become self-conscious – and in some cases obsessed with – any imperfections they believe their appearance has. This modern trend has led to a rise in people turning to cosmetic surgery to make aesthetic improvements. When you have taken the decision to undergo a cosmetic procedure, choosing which plastic surgeon to trust with your aesthetic desires is of crucial importance. In addition to being licensed to practice by the local health authorities, there are other points you should consider before you make your final decision.
It is a big asset if your plastic surgeon is recommended by a relative or a friend who has undergone a procedure by the specialist and has been delighted by what has been achieved. This is much more valuable than choosing your surgeon based on adverts, internet searches or having seen him/her featured in a magazine or on TV. Obtaining a first-hand report from somebody who is concerned with your well-being, and who had a positive experience with a particular plastic surgeon can tilt the balance. Equally, if you hear that a particular plastic surgeon has denied a friend or an acquaintance a procedure or a surgery because he thinks that he or she doesn’t need that procedure; then book your consultation with him. This is one quality that you want your plastic surgeon to have: high ethical standards. Denying a patient a procedure, for a good reason such as non-indication, means that the surgeon is prioritizing the patient’s welfare over anything else. No matter how you look at it, plastic surgeons, especially those running their own clinics, have a business to sustain. Saying no to a potential monetary benefit should be highly appreciated.
Try always to find a surgeon who has been practicing for at least 10 to 15 years in the same country where you are residing. This has two benefits: first, the more years of experience, the better as significant expertise will guarantee the best possible results. Second, living in the same country is very important. In the UAE, particular many clinics have “visiting surgeons” who fly in for just one week each month to perform procedures and then leave. But ideally your surgeon should be around whenever the need arises for you to see him, especially in the first three to four weeks after your surgery. Visiting surgeons can be very experienced, but it is not ideal to be operated by somebody who will leave one or two days after your operation, potentially only returning a few months later, as this means your immediate post-op care will most probably be designated to another surgeon who may not have even attended your surgery and is not fully familiar with your case.
Your initial consultation with your plastic surgeon is crucial. This reflects how concerned your chosen plastic surgeon is and how much weight he gives to your problem. It is the golden time where you need to understand the entire process from start to finish and where any concern(s) you have can be addressed. An adequate time for the first consultation should be at least 30 to 45 minutes – never accept being given a time of 10 or 15 minutes. You need to be under no time pressure to ask all your questions and for your surgeon to give you a comprehensive explanation about the subject of concern to you. By the end of the consultation, you should feel comfortable to book your procedure with that surgeon.
Finally, try to never let money be the determining factor in your decision. For instance if you have chosen a surgeon but have decided he is too expensive, don’t choose a surgeon simply on the basis that he can do your procedure cheaper. Remember you are paying for the expertise of that particular surgeon, and this has great value. If your surgeon fulfills all the criteria mentioned above, book with him even if he will cost you more than another who doesn’t match all the necessary criteria. Remember, you are paying more because you want to be taken care of by a plastic surgeon who has more experience, is conveniently available when you need him, who is keen on listening to your concerns and has high ethical standards.
Visit Dr. Kayle’s website to make an appointment
