Choosing Your Surgeon

Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure that requires experience, skill, precision and experience — so choosing a sufficiently experienced surgeon can make a huge difference in achieving your desired results. Before you take the plunge and invest in this aesthetic procedure, we’re here to discuss how to choose a suitable rhinoplasty surgeon.

1. Certification and credentials 

The first step in choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon is to ensure they are certified by the appropriate assocations. Certification means the surgeon has undergone rigorous, long-term training and has met the necessary standards to perform a procedure successfully. 

In Australia, facial plastic surgeons are recognised by the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Agency (AHPRA) and must pass their fellowship exam and training from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). As the only college accredited by the Australian government to deliver specific training to be deemed a fellow and board certified, RACS ensures surgeons can offer the level of care needed for success. Your rhinoplasty surgeon should also be a member of the Australian Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (ASOHNS).

Facial plastic surgeons understand the anatomy, proportions and surgical techniques needed to achieve the desired outcome. They also have access to a wide range of equipment necessary to prioritise safety and provide a sufficiently sterile environment. 

Whether you’re undergoing rhinoplasty for aesthetic or medical reasons, choosing a skilled, experienced, certified rhinoplasty surgeon is an important first step.

2. Experience and training

While a newly certified doctor may be cheaper than an accomplished surgeon, experience is a crucial factor when it comes to rhinoplasty. Look for a rhinoplasty surgeon with extensive experience in performing this procedure — ask about the number of surgeries they’ve completed and if they have experience performing techniques for rhinoplasty. 

You’ll also want to find a surgeon who dedicates their practice exclusively to facial plastic surgery or has extensive rhinoplasty experience — they will have the necessary knowledge and patient-centred methods needed to provide you with a professional standard of care and treatment. During your initial consultation, don’t be afraid to ask your rhinoplasty surgeon questions about their surgical procedure history.

3. Request before and after photos 

Before and after images are often a good way to evaluate your surgeon’s skills. Look for a rhinoplasty surgeon with a vast portfolio of images and ask to see them during your consultation — this will give you an idea of the results you can expect and help you visualise the procedure’s potential outcome.

4. Patient reviews

Patient reviews are another useful tool when it comes to choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon to perform your procedure. Read online reviews from previous patients to learn more about the surgeon’s knowledge of facial anatomy, whether they are easy to communicate with and if they provide patient-focused care throughout the surgical journey. If the rhinoplasty surgeon has negative reviews or patients have expressed they didn’t achieve the aesthetic outcome they were expecting, these may be indicators that you should look elsewhere.

5. Consultation 

It is essential to schedule a consultation with your rhinoplasty surgeon to discuss your goals, concerns and expectations. During the consultation, you can evaluate the surgeon’s communication skills, bedside manner and overall experience. It is also an opportunity to ask any questions and ensure you feel comfortable with the surgeon before proceeding with the surgery. 

You can ask your rhinoplasty surgeon the following questions:

• What is your experience with performing rhinoplasty?
• What rhinoplasty techniques do you specialise in?
• What are your board certifications? 
• Do you have hospital privileges? If so, where will this procedure be performed? 
• How often do you perform this procedure? 
• Can you walk me through the procedure and any potential risks? 
• What can I expect during recovery, and how long will it take? 
• What is the protocol if there are serious complications during the surgery?
• Can I see before and after images from previous patients? 
• What kind of anaesthesia do you use?
• What is the downtime associated with this procedure?
• How many pre-op and follow-up appointments will be needed? 
• Is there a medical professional on call to answer post-op questions? 
• What is the cost breakdown of this procedure? 
• Is there anything I need to do prior to the surgery? 

Book your consultation with Dr Shahidi — rhinoplasty surgeon 

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained and qualified ear, nose and throat, head and neck surgeon with special training in rhinoplasty and other nasal treatments. He is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. He has also undertaken a fellowship at the Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery (AAFPS) and has been recognised for his academic knowledge and surgical training. Having worked at many hospitals across the globe, he is now affiliated with North Shore Specialist Day Surgery and Lakeview Private Hospital in Sydney.

If you’re looking for a rhinoplasty surgeon that values your health, safety and comfort, book your consultation with Dr Shahidi online today.

Ensure your surgeon is a member of:

	Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons
	The Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
	The Australasian Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery