Before a patient commits to plastic surgery, he or she typically spends a fair amount of time researching plastic surgeons. What factors do patients consider when selecting someone to perform their surgery? A study published in the January issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery pinpoints some of the ways patients decide who to trust with their procedures.
Assessing a variety of factors cited by a group of Dutch patients interested in plastic surgery, the study’s authors determined the most compelling factor individuals look for when choosing a plastic surgeon is the amount of experience the surgeon has: Patients are most comfortable with a physician that has several years of experience performing plastic surgery procedures. Another factor that has a strong bearing on a patient’s choice of a preferred surgeon is a personal recommendation. Recommendations from the patient’s general practitioner, family member or friend have the most weight, while recommendations from television commercials and other advertisements have less influence. Other factors that help a patient select a doctor include the travel time to the doctor’s office, which according to the study was ideally less than 30 minutes, as well as the cost of the procedure. Most patients take all of these matters into consideration when selecting a plastic surgeon.
Dr. Shahram Salemy, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, agrees with the Dutch study’s findings but adds, “It’s more telling to look at the whole picture (experience, referrals, reviews, before and after photos and training), which gives patients a broader view into if they want to go to a particular doctor, not just for the results he may be able to provide, but also what type of care and experience they should expect.” Dr. Salemy also finds that he gets patients from most areas of the country, and not just local communities because he explains, “It’s most important that the surgeon has the appropriate training and certification (is board certified) and is accessible, available and willing to talk to his patients.”
Dr. Salemy has received the distinction of being named one of “America’s Top Plastic Surgeons” by the Consumers’ Research Council. He is also a multiple-year winner of the annual “Patient’s Choice Award”, which recognizes him for his excellent patient care and outstanding results. Dr. Salemy has devoted his career to building successful relationships with his clients and provides tailored services to clients both from communities in greater Washington and patients from across the United States.
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