Plastic surgery for many is still a destination and not a convenience. The many cosmetic procedures are very specialized and expertise in one specific area may not be available locally. Like everything else in the world, the internet has made it possible for people to research and seek out the voluminous amount of material that can be accessed on cosmetic procedures. With patients able to do a lot of reading, the problem for them becomes how to interpret what they have read and how does it apply to themselves and their individual needs.
Nothing can supplant an actual visit to a plastic surgeon and a face-face consultation But this is not always possible and often inconvenient. To answer this need, plastic surgeons across the country are offering at-home live video consultations. Through the internet service, Skype, such webcam-based video interactions are not only easy to do but free. Having done a fair number of these Skype video sessions, I have learned that there are several things a patient should do to get the most out of that interaction.
First, get yourself an account on Skype through their website under your name. This process is free and takes just a few minutes to do. Once registered, make sure you then add the plastic surgeon you wish to consult with to your contact list. This requires knowing how their name is registered and that should be given to you by them. If not, you can look up their name under search and find them based on name and geographic location. In my case, I am registered under dr.barry.eppley. The plastic surgeon will then add you to their contact list and you will receive confirmation back. You can then send a text and work out a specific time for your session.
Second, make sure your audio and video is working properly prior to the scheduled time. About half the time, I have found that either the audio or video on the patient’s end is not working properly. That is usually because one has not done a ‘dry run’ first. Either one doesn’t have the connections right or has inadequate or faulty equipment. Unless you are on a relatively new computer, it pays to check your video source and microphone. Contact a friend first and do a test video session. It can save embarrassment and may avoid having to set up a second video session.
Third, it is helpful if the plastic surgeon has been provided some preparatory information. I like to have my Skype consults fill out the same paperwork that my in-office patients do in regards to medical history information. This is e-mailed to patients beforehand. Also, any photos that can help illustrate your concerns or problems are also helpful to send in advance. This is particularly important for facial plastic surgery procedures.
Lastly, write down any questions you have to ask the plastic surgeon in advance. You can use this as a reference through the session. Patients frequently fail to remember important questions and concerns in the heat of the moment. Focused questions can limit the session to a maximum of 15 to 20 minutes in most cases.
It is also important to understand the objectives of a video interaction. This is an informational conversation that provides both general and detailed information about your procedures of interest You can usually find out more in less than 15 minutes talking to an expert than they can gather from reading hours of online material.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana