The essentials
- Describe what you want to understand or change.
- Share medical information through the practice's approved private process.
- Leave with a clear plan and permission to consider your options.
Start with three priorities
Write down your main concern, the change you would value most, and the tradeoff you are least comfortable accepting. These could involve appearance, scars, recovery responsibilities, or the possibility of future procedures.
Keep inspiration photos separate from expectations. A reference image can help explain a preference, but it cannot establish that the same result is possible or appropriate for you. Ask the surgeon to explain where your starting anatomy changes the discussion.
- What matters most to me?
- What do I not want to change?
- What do I need to understand before I can decide?
Prepare accurate health information
ASPS recommends being ready to discuss medical conditions, allergies, medications and supplements, substance use, and previous surgery. An incomplete history can leave important questions unanswered.
Follow the practice's instructions for sharing this information privately. Do not upload records to public social posts or send sensitive details through an unapproved channel. If you are unsure what is needed, ask the office before the appointment; do not stop prescribed medication on your own.
Ask the surgeon to explain the recommendation
Request the exact procedure name and the reason it is being proposed. Ask what the procedure can change, what it cannot change, and how the surgeon reached that recommendation.
If several operations are suggested, discuss the contribution of each one and whether a smaller or staged plan is reasonable. Ask about no surgery as an alternative too. You should not have to infer the treatment plan from a price sheet or a gallery.
- Why does this approach fit my situation?
- What are the meaningful alternatives?
- Which results would be unrealistic?
- What would make you postpone or advise against surgery?
Discuss the obligations as well as the outcome
Ask about procedure-specific risks, possible complications, expected scars, and the follow-up plan. Tell the surgeon about work, caregiving, and travel responsibilities so the discussion reflects your actual life.
Before leaving, identify the clinical contact and how questions are handled after hours. Ask what instructions you would receive before and after surgery and which visits must be in person. Do not use an estimated timeline as permission to resume an activity.
- What support would I need at home?
- Who evaluates a concern or complication?
- Which follow-up steps are included?
- What might require additional care or expense?
Review the plan before committing
Request a written estimate with inclusions, exclusions, and payment terms. Record unanswered questions while the consultation is fresh. If the recommendation is not clear, ask for an explanation or seek another opinion before choosing.
For a Dr. Miami consultation, use the practice's current scheduling and intake process. This checklist is a preparation tool, not medical clearance or informed consent. Your decision should follow an individualized discussion with the surgeon who would perform the operation.
- Can I explain the proposed plan in my own words?
- Do I understand the main risks and alternatives?
- Are the care arrangements and costs clear?
- Which questions still need a direct answer?
Your next step
Bring your questions to Dr. Miami.
Use this guide to prepare for an individual conversation about your goals, options, and care.
Request a consultation