Patients guide
supporting the free choice of doctors

Basically, the term cosmetic surgeon does not exist as it is not protected by law or copyright. Therefore, many physicians and doctors in surgical fields can offer esthetic surgeries and treatments.

For that reason, it is of utmost importance to gather as much information as possible before any surgery. In order to facilitate your search for the appropriate medical specialist we have compiled some relevant questions and answers. Please make sure that you choose the appropriate specialist from the list below. Please be aware that in Germany only the terms 'Facharzt/ Fachaerztin' (medical specialists) are legally protected occupational titles.

Fachärzte/Ärztinnen für die Schönheitsoperation
(cosmetic surgeon)

• Facharzt / Fachärztin für Chirurgie, mit Teilgebiet: Plastische Chirurgie
  (cosmetic surgeon)
  
  
• Facharzt / Fachärztin für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie
  (cosmetic surgeon)
  
  
• Facharzt / Fachärztin für Mund- Kiefer- Gesichtschirurgie
  (cranio-maxilli-facial surgeon)
  
  
• Facharzt / Fachärztin für Hals- Nasen- Ohrenheilkunde
  (ear, nose, and throat specialist)
  
  
• Facharzt / Fachärztin für Augenheilkunde
  (ophthalmologist)
  
  
• Facharzt / Fachärztin für Dermatologie
  (dermatologist)
  
  
• Facharzt / Fachärztin für Gynäkologie
  (gynecologist)
  
  

Our "How to" Guide

1. Please make sure that the medical specialist of your choice has the professional profile and the experience necessary for the treatment.
   
   
   • Has the doctor any additional minor qualifications?
   • Where did he acquire his qualifications and what exactly are they?
   • Does he maintain a traceable history in the specialized field?
   • How long has he been practicing?
   • How many operations are performed each week?
   
   
   
2. Take advice from more than one medical specialist.
   
   Be sure that you have gathered sufficient information not only about the opportunities and the limits of the operation planned, but also about possible risks and side effects. Each surgeon applies his or her own operation techniques. Inquire why a particular technique is being used and whether there are alternative methods. Be certain that your surgeon has given you detailed information about the proceedings and what amount and particular type of anesthesia will be applied.
   
   
3. Jot down your questions before you consult your doctor.
   
   Get yourself informed beforehand by using friends, magazines, the internet, and other well-informed sources. Please keep in mind that risks are everywhere and plastic surgery is not excluded from observing its limits.
   
   
4. The Realistic Image of Unlimited Opportunities
   
   Consider the opportunities that your planned cosmetic surgery provides, but be realistic and draw a sharp line between this and the lofty dreams of an ideal body. Though some media's charlatans and snake oil vendors may promise us heaven and earth, we need to be clear about the fact that, despite technological and methodological progress, not every imagined operation is feasible.
   
   
5. Always Ask for Information at Different Medical Specialists.
   
   Before your planned operation, make sure that you have consulted a number of medical specialists. Although you will then have come across a great array of opinions, this is your opportunity to get yourself clear about the important facts.
   
   
6. Pictures Can Be Misleading
   
   You certainly know these pixeled, sugar coated, and unrealistic pictures. Unsightly human bodies have mysteriously been transformed by talented, golden hands into gorgeous models, leaving the natural signs of age behind. As every single human being is unique not only with regard to his or her soul, but also to the body, risks need to be assessed on an individual basis, too. The results of the operation may likewise be affected by the individual healing process and the specific condition of the lesions.
   
   
7. Determine the Attending Surgeon.
   
   In larger hospitals, where there are a number of specialists in the required field, it is important to choose one who will perform the operation. It is often the case that the physician-in-chief introduces himself, but the actual operation is performed by one of his assistants.
   
   
8. Where Exactly Does the Operation Take Place?
   
   If you are planning to have a buttock lift or an abdominal wall tightening, you are well advised to turn to a larger clinic or a hospital. Since after the operations patients are usually required to stay overnight, the institution of your choice need to be provided with a room for recovery or observation.
   
   
9. Does Your Health Insurance Cover the Costs of the Treatment?
   
   Prior to the medical treatment, you may talk to your doctor about the extent to which your health insurance is to cover its costs. A breast reduction, for example, is covered in full if problems with your back can be solved. In any case, before your operation is due, you may contact your health insurance.
   
   
10. Beware of Paying by Instalments.
    
    Since you never know whether there will be additional costs for after-treatments, you need to be certain that getting into paying by instalments would not surcharge your budged. These costs are usually not covered by your health insurance; so always keep an eye on your financial abilities.