The Plastic Surgery Consultation What Patients Should Expect

In this episode of Beauty and the Beasts, plastic surgeons Dr. Sam Jejurikar and Dr. Salvatore Pacella focus on one of the most important parts of plastic surgery that often gets overlooked: the consultation.

For many patients, the first visit with a plastic surgeon can feel intimidating. Most people arrive having done extensive online research and often come in asking for a specific procedure. Dr. Jejurikar and Dr. Pacella explain why the best consultations are not about requesting an operation, but about clearly explaining concerns, goals, and what truly bothers the patient.

The conversation explores how experienced surgeons structure a consultation, beginning with open ended questions and careful listening. The hosts emphasize the importance of rapport and trust, noting that plastic surgery is often a concierge style relationship that requires strong communication before, during, and after surgery.

A major focus of the episode is the physical examination and why it remains essential in plastic surgery. Dr. Pacella discusses the value of face to face interaction, hands on examination, and tissue evaluation, and why these elements cannot be replaced by electronic medical records or imaging alone.

The episode also covers the questions patients should expect to have answered during a consultation, including safety, recovery, and implant related concerns. The surgeons discuss how they address breast implant associated conditions, including lymphoma and breast implant associated illness, and why transparency about what is known and unknown is critical.

Financial considerations are addressed as well, including third party financing and how patients can prepare in advance to understand costs and options. The role of three dimensional imaging is discussed, with insight into how modern tools are best used for communication and assessment rather than exact prediction of results.

The episode concludes with a discussion on board certification and recovery planning, explaining why training, qualifications, and a clear understanding of postoperative recovery are essential before moving forward with surgery.

This episode is ideal for anyone considering plastic surgery, preparing for a first consultation, or wanting a clearer understanding of how to choose a surgeon and get the most out of the consultation process.