Patients should understand that the consultation provides them with personalized information about the condition or problem for which they have a concern. Many years of training have been acquired by the surgeon to formulate an expert opinion as to whether or not a procedure should or should not be performed. If surgery is not recommended, the patient should realize the decision was made in their best interest. 

Facial Analysis/Facial Proportions 
To better understand the basics of facial proportions and analysis, analyze your own features by the following criteria: Leonardo da Vinci has shown that facial aesthetics are basically divided into equal one-thirds in the vertical dimension. These are demonstrated by horizontal lines drawn at the forehead hairline, brow, base of nose and chin. Ideally, the middle third, which contains the nose, should equal the lower segment. Horizontally, the face should be five eyes wide. The chin should nearly touch a line drawn downward from the lip. If the nose and chin are out of proportion to the other facial features, correction can provide a much more pleasing harmony. 

The Initial Consultation: What to Expect 
Prior to your consultation visit, we ask that you complete both front and back of the Medical History Questionnaire and mail it or bring it with you. Be sure to list and describe any medical conditions, surgeries and allergies in the past or present. In addition, carefully list all medications, aspirin, pain medications, and vitamins or herbs that you take. 

During your visit, we will discuss your desires and the conditions that you wish to have corrected or improved. This includes an examination and analysis of the condition. I will give you an idea of what I believe can be accomplished in your particular situation as well as whether plastic surgery is indicated at all. 

If appropriate, video imaging is used to illustrate the results you may expect in your case. The expected improvements will be discussed, along with the limitations, risks and alternatives. Please don't hesitate to ask questions or voice any concerns that you may have at any time. 

Additionally, a series of photographs will be taken so that they can be referred to prior to surgery. Also, these photographs provide an accurate, objective comparison once the surgery is complete. 

Patients who have time schedules to meet (such as returning to work, school, vacation or other commitments) should advise the scheduling staff. If you are interested in scheduling surgery as soon as possible, please let us know so that a period is reserved in the surgery schedule. 

In most cases, specific preliminary tests, such as blood counts and other laboratory tests are necessary. In some cases, EKG's, X-rays, or consultation with medical specialists may be necessary prior to elective surgery. Also, as discussed in the section on Financial Responsibilities/Insurance Issues, other consultations, precertifications or second opinions may be required by your individual health insurance plan. 

Subsequent pre-surgery visits are usually necessary to discuss the proposed surgical improvements. This is particularly important if it was requested that you see another physician for a medical consultation (Ophthalmologist, ENT, etc.). Also, if surgery is scheduled long after your initial consultation you may need to return to the office to refresh your memory and answer any questions which you may have.