Safety in the Operating Room
Plastic surgeons care about safety in the operating room, but there are important things that patients should know so that they are knowledgeable about what makes an operating room safe. That way, you choose a surgeon that you feel comfortable with and confident in.
A plastic surgeon should be operating in an accredited facility. This ensures that the facility has met the strict national standards required. Accredited facilities will have safe equipment and be staffed by personnel and practitioners who have been certified or meet standard credentials.
Communication is also important. The surgeon and his staff should have a system of communication that ensures that they can work together. This is apparent during your first consultation. You can see the dynamic between nurse practitioners, surgeons, and administrative staff when you first walk in the door. During the planning stages, nurses should be involved and briefed. This way, all of your desired results can be achieved. You can also get peace of mind knowing the entire staff cares about your safety in the operating room.
What happens after surgery is also very important. Consider how a surgeon prepares his patients for recovery. Are patients allowed to spend some time in recovery facilities? How extensive is post-surgical care for the first hour after surgery? When is the first follow up appointment? These are all important parts of a safe surgery.
