Unlike many other plastic or cosmetic surgeons who employ nurses or GPs to see new patients, I see all of my patients myself. This means your consultation will be with the surgeon who will perform the surgery and also the same surgeon who will look after you throughout your recovery and after care.
Before the consultation, you will be asked to complete a registration form. This includes a patient privacy statement to be signed on the reverse.
New patients to the practice should allow between 30 mins and 1 hour for the consultation depending on the type and complexity of the procedure requested. Please be as specific as possible when making the booking so the correct amount of time can be allocated to you.
The consultation is an important time for us to get to know each other. Surgery is a journey (for both of us) and it is essential to establish understanding and trust.
To assess your suitability for surgery I will ask questions about your previous medical history and past operations. It is a good idea to bring a summary of previous significant medical events and a list of current medications if they are extensive and difficult to remember.
Part of the work up for surgery includes a physical examination. Some people find this embarrassing but I always strive to preserve your dignity and respect your privacy. Please let us know if you would prefer a chaperone to be present during the examination. The physical examination often involves taking measurements, trying different sizers (breast augmentation) and assessment of weight and height.
I will usually take photographs which will form part of your medical records. These photographs are stored on a secure server and will never be used for any other purpose without your express written permission. If you are happy for the photographs to be used for education or research purposes they will be made anonymous wherever possible.
For many procedures but especially those of a cosmetic nature, I strongly recommend a second consultation be arranged before embarking on surgery. This is a good opportunity to answer further questions and ensure we both have realistic (and the same) expectations.
Referral
You do not need a referral to see me but it is a good idea. With a valid GP referral you will be able to claim back the Medicare portion of the consultation fee as well as claim the Medicare / insurance rebate for any subsequent procedures if they are covered by a MBS item number.
Parking
Parking is available in the patient car park underneath Cabrini hospital (entrance via Coonil Cres, off Wattletree Rd). Alternatively there is free parking in many of the streets around the hospital, but please beware of the vigilant parking inspectors who enforce the time limits.
