If you’re considering cosmetic surgery, the government now requires that you have two consultations before your procedure. This article explains the process so you know what to expect and feel more comfortable. We’ll also explain your requirements regarding a GP referral.
INITIAL CONSULTATION
To find out if your desired surgery procedure is for you, you’ll need to book an Initial Consultation with Dr Feldman. During this time, you’ll discuss the following with her:
- Meet and greet/discuss concerns – After meeting Joni, she’ll ask you to discuss your concerns and desires for cosmetic surgery and ask any questions.
- Reasons and motivations – Dr Feldman will ask what motivates you for surgery. For example, these could be issues around employment, physical discomfort with a body part or perhaps you have particular feelings about your appearance or simply feel unhappy with your current silhouette.
- Previous refusals – Dr Feldman will ask if any other doctor has declined to provide you with cosmetic surgery.
- Medical assessment – Dr Feldman will assess you for various health issues, from your mental health status and history of medical illnesses to previous surgeries and current medications.
- Further action – If your screening indicates that you may have a psychological disorder, such as BDD (Body Dysmorphic Disorder), Dr Feldman will refer you to an appropriate GP, psychologist or psychiatrist (who works independently of Dr Feldman) for an evaluation.
- Other options – Dr Feldman will discuss alternative options to their desired cosmetic surgery procedure with every patient. These options may include other types of surgery, procedures or treatments offered by different health practitioners. She will also discuss the option of not performing surgery.
- Possible refusal – If Dr Feldman feels the surgical procedure is not in your best interest, she may refuse treatment.
Discussing the procedure and costs
During your initial consultation, Dr Feldman will also explain the procedure in detail to you, as well as itemise all costs involved. This appointment is also your time to ask any further questions.
At the end of the consultation, you should have a clear indication of the procedure, all costs involved, and a greater understanding of whether it’s the right choice for you. You’ll be asked to think the process through and do further research. If you’re still keen to proceed after this time, you must confirm your consent via email.
Dr Feldman will then send you all details regarding the procedure, along with the Pre-operative Requirements and, in some cases, a referral for blood tests or radiology. She’ll then organise a second consultation, which could take place over the phone or, if preferred, in person.
IMPORTANT
You will not sign any consent forms during your initial consultation.
No GP referral is required for your Initial Consultation with Dr Feldman. However, if you decide to proceed, you must get a referral from a GP before the second consultation.
GP REFERRAL
Before booking your second consultation with Dr Feldman, you are legally required to get a referral from your GP. (Ideally, this referral should come from your GP. Alternatively, another GP or specialist doctor can refer you to Dr Feldman.)
FURTHER READING
Cosmetic surgery has risks. If you’re considering cosmetic surgery, it’s essential to do your research using reliable sources of information. Find out about cosmetic surgery in Australia and how to make an informed decision about your procedure here.
For more information contact Dr Feldman’s office today.