Choosing Your Surgeon

When choosing a cosmetic surgeon there are important considerations including:

1. Experience of the Surgeon

• How long has the surgeon been performing the procedure you are interested in?
• How many surgeries has he or she performed?
• How often does he or she perform the procedure?
• Have complications ever occurred?

You should be shown photographic examples of the surgeon's past work including pre and post-operative photographs of the operation. This should include a variety of different examples, not just one or two, in order to satisfy you of the surgeon has significant experience performing the procedure.

2. Rapport with the Surgeon

You should always feel comfortable with the surgeon and feel satisfied that an unbiased explanation of the procedure has been given including a detailed explanation of potential complications and side effects. At the end of the consultation you should feel confident that your surgeon will look after your interests. The surgeon may be able to arrange other patients who have had the procedure to speak to you.

3. Post Operative care

You need to ask the following questions:

• What if there are problems after your surgery?
• Will you be able to contact the surgeon or their staff quickly?
• Will the surgeon themself speak to you and offer advice and solutions?
• How many times will the surgeon see you after surgery?

Make sure your follow-up visits are included in your surgical fee.

4. Reputation of the Surgeon

Your general practitioner will usually be aware of the reputation of particular surgeons in your area. You can also ask any friends or family that have dealt with the surgeon in the past.

Dr Murray's Credentials

Dr Murray qualified for a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at UWA. He is a medical board advisor and an Australian Medical Association (AMA) representative. He has been involved with the Erian Breast Surgery Workshop and has also appeared in television on various occasions to talk about medical operations including current trends in breast implants and cosmetic surgery.