Angie's LIST Guide to
Reconstructive surgery

Consult with your health insurance provider to make sure that reconstructive work is a covered procedure. Most companies give their customers a directory of providers that lists the surgeons by specialty. If you can choose your own doctor outside of the network of listed providers you may be responsible for some of the costs. Make sure that you verify the qualifications of any doctor that you may be considering. A qualified surgeon must have received their education and training from an accredited medical school to become licensed. Thoroughly explore all your options so you are aware of what your insurance company will cover. From your list of reconstructive surgeons, verify their qualifications with Angie's List, where you also read member reviews and ratings.

Have a checklist of questions available to guide you during your consultation with a reconstructive surgeon. When you meet with the surgeon, expect the doctor to discuss what is involved in reconstructive procedures. You may be offered alternative choices for treatment, so make sure that you are fully informed of all your options. Ask the surgeon to show you before-and-after images of some patients that have used their services. This is a common practice for those doctors that offer reconstructive services. Seeing the beneficial results that the surgical procedures can have on an individual's appearance will make you feel more comfortable and at ease.

During your appointment with the reconstructive surgeon, make sure that you go over all the details of the treatment including costs and what to expect during recovery. If you are being treated by your primary care physician for any health conditions and are taking prescription medicines, make sure that the surgeon is fully informed. During your consultation, the surgeon should provide you with information about the possible risks and complications that may result from reconstructive procedures.