When Your Surgeon Says “No”

Undergoing a plastic surgical procedure is not to be taken lightly. It involves invasive surgery with a recovery time, risks, complications, and limitations that impact not only you, but possibly also your loved ones and those around you.

Specialist plastic surgeons are highly knowledgeable about what will and won’t work in a surgical procedure. This means if your surgeon says “no” to something you desire, there is likely a good reason for this. It will help you to listen to their advice and guidance, and understand that certain recommendations are made for the sake of your health and well-being.

Why might my surgeon say “No”?

Dr Richardson takes his role as a Specialist Plastic Surgeon seriously, with the responsibility, trust and duty of care that goes with it. When assessing patients for surgery, we screen for anything that may lead to a detrimental or poor outcome, some of which include:

• Unstable medical and psychological conditions. For example, diabetes, high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, uncontrolled anxiety, or body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
• Unexpected or adverse clinical findings. This may include a breast or abdominal mass.
• Medical conditions or risk-taking behaviour. Some behaviours are known to lead to complications, e.g. morbid obesity (high BMI), smoking, vaping, and drug-taking.
• Requests for surgery that are unsafe. We will not perform surgery that is unsafe or will damage or disfigure you.
• Expectations that we cannot meet. If a patient has unrealistic expectations about what surgery can do for them, then we will not proceed.

No, or not yet?

When seeking a surgical procedure, sometimes, the answer is “Not yet.” This might include cases where someone losing weight for surgery to bring their body mass index (BMI) below 30kg/m2 is required.

However, sometimes it is a flat “No.” It’s important to understand that if your surgeon says “No” to performing a procedure on you, it is in the interests of your health, well-being, and safety.

A Discussion With Dr Jeremy Richardson

To determine whether a procedure is possible for you, you’ll need to have a consultation with Dr Richardson. You will have the opportunity to discuss your medical needs, motivations, and expected outcomes, as well as any concerns or questions you have about your desired surgery. Dr Richardson will ask you relevant questions and assess whether we can achieve your goals in a safe and predictable manner. He will let you know if this is not possible during your visit.

Contact us to find out whether your desired surgery is possible for you.