How To Tell Your Plastic Surgeon You Are Unhappy

How to Tell Your Plastic Surgeon You're Unhappy: A Guide to Difficult Conversations

It's never easy to admit you're unhappy with the results of a plastic surgery procedure. You've invested time, money, and trust, and feeling dissatisfied can be incredibly upsetting. However, open and honest communication with your surgeon is crucial to resolving the issue. This guide will walk you through how to approach this sensitive conversation effectively.

Before the Conversation: Gathering Your Thoughts and Evidence

Before contacting your surgeon, take some time to reflect on your concerns. What specifically are you unhappy with? Be specific. Avoid vague statements. Instead of saying "I hate it," try "The scar is more noticeable than I was led to believe," or "My breast implant feels uneven."

Document everything: Gather any relevant documentation, including:

• Pre-operative photos: These will be essential for comparison.
• Post-operative photos: Take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles.
• Medical records: These will provide a record of the procedure and any post-operative care received.
• Correspondence: Keep copies of any emails, texts, or letters exchanged with your surgeon's office.

This documentation will be invaluable in supporting your concerns and facilitating a productive discussion.

During the Conversation: Communicating Effectively

When you contact your surgeon's office, be calm and professional. Explain that you'd like to schedule a consultation to discuss your concerns about the procedure.

During the consultation, remember to:

• Remain calm and respectful. Even if you feel frustrated or angry, maintaining a calm demeanor will help ensure a productive conversation.
• Be specific and factual. Clearly articulate your concerns, using precise language and referring to your documentation. Avoid emotional outbursts or accusations.
• Listen actively. Allow your surgeon the opportunity to explain their perspective. Try to understand their viewpoint, even if you don't agree with it.
• Ask clarifying questions. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the procedure, the healing process, or possible solutions.
• Avoid blame or hostility. Focusing on solutions rather than assigning blame will create a more constructive dialogue.
• State your desired outcome. What are you hoping to achieve? Do you want a revision surgery? A refund? A different form of compensation?

After the Conversation: Next Steps

After the consultation, document everything discussed. This includes any agreements reached, proposed solutions, and the timeline for any further actions.

If you're not satisfied with the outcome of the conversation, consider these options:

• Seek a second opinion: Consulting with another qualified plastic surgeon can provide an independent assessment of your situation.
• Contact your medical malpractice insurance: If you believe your surgeon committed malpractice, this is an avenue to explore.
• Mediation: Mediation can be a helpful way to resolve disputes outside of court.
• Legal action: In extreme cases, legal action may be necessary.

Remember: Open communication is key. By approaching the conversation calmly, respectfully, and with concrete evidence, you'll increase your chances of reaching a satisfactory resolution. Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a support group during this challenging time. Your emotional well-being is important.