Sheldene’s Thoughts On | Choosing Your Practitioner With Confidence
This past month I had the privilege of taking my staff to view the exhibition hall at the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS) conference, which took place at the Lord Charles Hotel.
The visit confirmed what I already know – South Africa has some of the best plastic surgeons in the world with knowledge of and access to the best techniques, products and devices in the world. Our resident surgeons, Drs Toogood, Kleynhans and Winkler, attended the conference.
When you choose a plastic surgeon, it is important to know that the practitioner is recognised by peers as competent and up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. There is a difference between an aesthetic practitioner, cosmetic doctor and plastic surgeon. Only registered plastic surgeons are allowed to perform surgery at Somerset Surgery. These surgeons must have completed five years of extra specialisation after their medical degree and must be registered with the Association of Plastic and Reconstructive surgeons of South Africa and the Health professions council of South Africa. Google “how to choose a doctor for your cosmetic procedure” and first on the list will be: Check the qualifications.
It is also vitally important that you and your surgeon have a good rapport and agree on what you can reasonably expect to achieve by undergoing surgery (or a non-surgical procedure) to correct a concern you may have. Doctors are not offended by a list of questions that has been prepared beforehand, so ask as many as you like to make sure you cover all bases in your consultation. Remember to listen to the actual answers and not just focus on your list of questions!
Booking a consultation with a plastic surgeon on the recommendation of a good friend who has undergone a similar procedure is a very good place to start. You must have confidence in your choice of practitioner (be it doctor or skincare therapist) before you embark on your aesthetic journey. This brings me to the point of my message this month: thorough consultation is key, whether you are contemplating surgery or a skincare treatment.
Not everything should be done from a digital distance. You can submit your details online and get a computer-generated response about what products or treatments are best for you, but for a truly bespoke treatment plan you need to see a qualified professional face to face.
Get in touch with one of our professionals to talk about your concerns, expectations, lifestyle and budget. Allow them to tailor-make a treatment plan for you that will suit your specific needs and requirements. You don’t have to go on this journey alone. Put yourself in our hands and we will help you become the best you, you can be.