Getting a Second Opinion for Liposuction

Who to consult

• Board-certified plastic surgeons (ABPS) — verifiable at abplasticsurgery.org
• In-office consultation (not just a call with a coordinator)
• Mix of styles: consider one surgeon known for volume/360 work and one known for HD sculpting or skin tightening
• Avoid: non-ABPS 'cosmetic surgeons' for combined-procedure or high-volume cases

What to bring

• Complete medication and supplement list
• History of prior surgery, especially abdominal
• Weight-loss history (including GLP-1 use)
• Photos of results you like and dislike
• Your top three questions in writing

Questions to ask every surgeon

• Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
• How many of this specific procedure do you perform each year?
• Which device(s) will you use and why?
• Where will the surgery happen, and is the facility accredited?
• Who will provide anesthesia?
• What is included in the quote — labs, garments, massage, revision policy?
• What complications have you personally managed and how?
• Can I speak with 2–3 recent patients?
• What am I NOT a good candidate for?

A simple scorecard

For each surgeon, rate 1–5: (1) credentials & facility, (2) how thoroughly they examined you, (3) how honestly they discussed limitations, (4) match between your goals and their proposed plan, (5) clarity of quote, (6) how you felt in the room. Total /30. A surgeon under 22 is not the right fit.

Red flags at any consultation

• Same-day discount pressure
• Refusal to disclose facility or anesthesiologist
• No physical exam before quoting
• Guarantees of a specific look or dress size
• 'Before/after' photos that all look identical or are watermarked from stock
• No documented revision policy

Frequently asked questions

Should I get more than one liposuction consultation?

Yes — most patient-safety organizations recommend at least two consultations for any elective aesthetic surgery. Comparing plans clarifies scope, cost, and technique choice.

Is it rude to tell a surgeon I am consulting others?

No. Ethical surgeons expect it and often ask directly. Anyone who pressures you to book same-day or discourages a second opinion is a red flag.

How do I compare very different plans?

Compare the total scope: which areas are being treated, which device is used, whether skin-tightening is included, anesthesia type, facility, and revision policy. A cheaper quote is often smaller in scope.

What is a fair range for two quotes to differ?

20–40% variation for the same scope is common in Miami. Differences beyond that usually reflect scope, surgeon experience, or facility level — not overcharging.

What is a red flag in a consultation?

Same-day pricing pressure, deposit required to hold a discount, unwillingness to name the anesthesiologist or facility, no board certification, no accredited facility, or before/after photos that don't match your body type.

Can I get a virtual second opinion?

Yes, most Miami practices offer virtual consultations with photo submission for initial planning. In-person examination is required before surgery is scheduled.

Should I get a second opinion after being told I need a tummy tuck?

Yes. Liposuction alone versus lipo + skin tightening versus a full tummy tuck is a big decision. A second surgeon's exam is worth the time and fee.