For Best Results, Communicate!

In my endodontist’s office the other day after a root canal, I was given a script for an antibiotic and told, “Take it if you need it.” “How will I know if I need it?” I said. “Oh, you’ll know” was the unhelpful answer. Still unsure, I unwisely left without following up. We all tend to be passive in medical settings, especially afterwards, when we’re a bit shaken up and anxious to just go home. So it’s important to respectfully ask the right questions beforehand and to have a doctor who provides clear follow-up instructions. A good surgeon will provide a lot of information during your consultation. Here are a few questions to start you thinking.

How often have you performed this procedure?

This will tell you how much experience your doctor has with your chosen procedure and whether it is a new treatment, technique or surgery. Doctor Sackman prefers to use procedures and treatments he has personally found effective. But when he has decided that a new innovation meets his standards, he will let you know that it’s new and why he likes it. He won’t experiment on you-he always does the necessary training first.

What is the procedure like?

Be sure to ask how many treatments you will need, if there will be incisions or stitches, what level of pain or discomfort you should expect and the qualifications of the person performing the anesthesia. At Enhancements all of this is information offered in advance as a matter of routine. Since most of our treatments are performed with local anesthesia, you can feel confident that Dr. Sackman knows exactly how to administer it. But if your procedure requires general anesthesia, Dr. Sackman calls in highly qualified providers who have worked with him over many years.

Do I need to do anything in advance?

Sometimes you’ll need to stop taking certain medications, vitamins and supplements which could interfere with your recovery. Occasionally you will need to take an antibiotic or other medication beforehand. Be sure you understand your preparation and take care to do it.

What is the recovery like?

Ask if you will need help getting home, what pain medications you should take to help minimize discomfort and what daily tasks you should avoid after your procedure. Again, all of this will be given to you in writing from Dr. Sackman before you go home. But it doesn’t hurt to ask during the consultation so you have time to plan.

How long will it take before I start to see results?

Ask about follow-up scheduling and appointments, how your results should progress over time, when can you expect to see your final results and what you should do if you are unhappy with them. Checking out at Enhancements covers all of this and more. Take the time to understand. Don’t hesitate to call with questions.

When can I go back to work and/or the gym and when can I resume wearing makeup and using skin-care products?

Ask about resuming daily activities, driving, heavy lifting, what products to avoid and discuss in advance any travel plans you may have.

How long do results last and what do I need to do to maintain them?

All healthcare is a two-way street. Especially with aesthetic procedures, If you don’t do your part, you can’t expect the best results. Follow your after-care instructions!

Polite communication is always the key to success. You’ll find that an informative doctor and staff will make your experience go smoothly.

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