Consultation Process
At Dr. Cat Plastic Surgery, the magic truly starts here. Please use the guide below to help you start your surgical journey to feeling more confident.
Step 1 Pre-Consultation with Surgical Consultant
The first step of your transformation will be a pre-consultation phone call with one of our knowledgeable surgical consultants. They will answer many of your questions, provide you with rough estimates, and help you process the consultation fee to secure the time and date of your consultation with your plastic surgeon.
Step 2 Consultation with the Surgeon
Our plastic surgeons offer both in-person consultations in Beverly Hills as well as virtual consultations with photos for out-of-town patients.
The consultation is probably one of the most important steps in the entire process. During that visit, your plastic surgeon will take the time to understand specifically what your concerns are and what you are hoping to achieve with surgery. Your surgeon will also perform a detailed history and physical exam and review with you a customized surgical plan. In addition, your surgeon will describe the procedures with you in detail and answer all your questions.
Consultation Checklist
- Government-issued ID (Drivers license, passport, etc).
- Questions about the procedure(s).
- Example photos of your aesthetic goals to show the doctor.
- Photos of your anatomy that are good quality and in good lighting (Only for virtual consultation).
- Operative note from previous surgery (Only if you are interested in a revision procedure).
- Medical clearance from your specialist like Oncologist, Cardiologist, etc (Only if you have a pre-existing medical condition and you are worried about it affecting your chances of having surgery).
FAQ
Consultation fee
Because our board-certified plastic surgeons perform the consultations themselves and there are limited consultation spots available a week, the consultation fee is $500 ($1000 for revision surgery) and goes towards the surgical procedure. The consultation fee is processed over the phone to secure the time and date of your consultation.
What if I’m from out of town?
About 30% of our patients come from out of town and overseas! Our plastic surgery practice offers virtual consultations. We have a very simple process for our out-of-town patients. We have more information on our Out of Town patient process here.
Who do I meet during the consultation?
It is a very in-depth appointment with the board certified plastic surgeon and also our patient coordinator.
What determines if someone is a candidate for surgery?
Overall health, age, emotional well-being, as well as expectations for surgery when evaluating a candidate for this procedure. Patients who are obese (BMI 30 or greater) or who smoke have a significantly higher risk of wound healing problems. Our practice requires patients to have stopped smoking for anywhere from two months to a year depending on their smoking history before having surgery.
When will I receive the total cost of surgery?
Our patient coordinator will go over the final quote with you at the end of your consultation, she will answer any financial questions you may have, and she will go over the financing options.
When can I schedule my surgery?
Our patient coordinator will provide you with available surgery dates. We give you the opportunity to schedule a surgery date if you are ready to move forward at that time and if not, there’s absolutely no rush.
Can I bring a guest?
You are welcome to bring one adult guest with you to your plastic surgery consultation.
What do I need to avoid before and after surgery?
To minimize the possibility of excess bleeding, you will need to avoid taking drugs containing aspirin, anti-inflammatories, alcohol, or herbal medications two weeks before surgery. You will receive a complete list of medications to avoid and detailed instructions before surgery. I consider the preparation before surgery and your understanding of how to take care of yourself critical to having the best possible results so myself and my staff will walk you through each part of the process every step of the way.
How long is my consultation quote valid?
The final quote you will receive at the consultation is valid for 6 months from the date of your consultation. If you schedule after 6 months, you will receive an updated quote based on current prices.
