Dr. Saber’s Blog

Plastic Surgery Virtual Second Opinions: Should You Talk to a Second Surgeon?

Cosmetic plastic surgery, whether to fix the shape of your nose, enhance your breasts, lift your butt, or slim your waist, is exciting. These elective surgeries can help you feel more confident and stunning, but they are still medical procedures with risks and complex factors.

Before scheduling your cosmetic surgery, you may want to get a second opinion. Keep reading to find out why a second opinion is so valuable.

What is a second opinion?

A second opinion is when you’ve received a diagnosis, prognosis, and or treatment plan from one doctor but want to seek the advice of another doctor who either practices within the same specialty or is even more subspecialized in your area of concern. Second opinions are common in surgical subspecialties such as orthopedic, pediatric, reconstructive, or cosmetic surgery.

If the doctor you first consulted recommends a complex surgical treatment plan, it is never a bad idea to seek out a second opinion either for confirmation of the plan or for possible alternate options. Your first doctor should never feel offended if you seek out a second opinion; in fact, a confident and competent specialist will often encourage you to seek out a second opinion before signing up for complex surgical procedures. With confirmation from a second expert, you can feel reassured and comfortable with your plan.

What happens during second opinion consultation?

When you seek a second opinion, the second specialist will review your medical records and discuss any medical problems. They may offer the same treatment plan as your first doctor, but in some cases, they may tell you something completely different.

People often seek second opinions to validate their original diagnosis and treatment plan or because they may not feel comfortable with their first doctor’s assessment. In some cases, patients may not feel very comfortable with the doctor themself — and that is perfectly fine. It is important to be able to connect with your surgeon, feel heard and understood, and have an easy line of communication both ways.

Why would I want a second opinion for plastic surgery?

When seeking a second opinion concerning plastic surgery, consider your relationship with your current doctor as well as the doctor’s surgical expertise, and past experience. People at med spas and private practices may offer cosmetic procedures with tons of pricing specials and discounts, but, as they say, you get what you pay for.

Unfortunately, too many “plastic surgeons” aren’t board-certified or even qualified to perform surgery. And even those who are trained and certified may not have extensive experience in the surgery you want. For example, reconstructive surgery to correct deformities or more delicate procedures like hand surgery need different skills than a simple breast augmentation.

Getting a second opinion before cosmetic surgery gives you more confidence in your surgeon and your expected surgical outcome. Your surgeon should go over the surgical procedure, their experience with it, and your expected results.

Top reasons to get a second opinion on plastic surgery

There are plenty of reasons to want a second opinion before undergoing surgery.

Seeking an opinion is low risk

Seeking a surgery second opinion is basically risk-free. If you don’t agree with your second doctor’s plan, you can happily return to your current doctor or even move on to a third one. And many reliable plastic surgeons offer free consultations!

Virtual Second Consultation

You only have one body

You only have one body; the last thing you want is to live with a wonky rhinoplasty (nose job) or to undergo revision abdominoplasty to fix a bad tummy tuck. We’ve all seen the horrifying shows on TV that display the nightmares of cosmetic surgeries gone wrong. Even though you’re probably excited about your operation, it’s always wise to take some extra time to get a second opinion.

You don’t click with your doctor

Sometimes, you and your doctor don’t click, and that’s okay! When planning something as sensitive as cosmetic surgery, it helps to feel comfortable with your doctor. So, don’t be afraid to look for a doctor you feel more comfortable with.

A second opinion gives you peace of mind

The average person doesn’t typically have extensive medical knowledge, so all you have to go on is the advice and information from your doctor. No matter how much you love and trust your doctor, getting a second opinion from another reputable cosmetic surgeon can give you more confidence that you’re making a fully informed decision.

The operation is risky

Some plastic surgery operations are common and straightforward, but others have more risks. For more delicate procedures like breast reconstruction and scar revision, it’s even more helpful to seek a second opinion.

How do I get a second opinion?

It’s usually pretty easy. Find a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon and schedule a consultation! To make peace of mind more accessible, Dr. Saber (and many other plastic surgeons) also offer virtual consultations.

Virtual second opinions allow patients to get insight into their treatment options before committing to plastic surgery. In-person consultations are also helpful for letting your prospective surgeon get a better vision of your starting point and aesthetic goals.

Cosmetic Surgery Second Opinion FAQs

Should I seek more than two doctors’ opinions?

If both the doctors you’ve consulted concerning your operation are reputable and said similar things, you likely don’t need a third, fourth, or fifth opinion. If one of the two doctors seems unreliable, you may want a third opinion, but consulting more than two or three doctors is usually unnecessary and may just introduce more confusion and uncertainty.

Are in-person second opinions better than virtual ones?

If your condition requires medical tests before finalizing the treatment plan, you’ll need to see a doctor in person. But there is no real benefit of in-person versus virtual consultations for going over your goals and options.

Should I tell my doctor(s) I’m seeking a second opinion?

The best doctors and surgeons will welcome a second opinion and even encourage it. There is nothing wrong with telling the current and new doctors you are seeking a second opinion, and it may even give them more insight into your needs and wants.

In 90% of cases, when my patients seek a second opinion, they return to me for treatment. However, in cases where my patient feels more comfortable with another surgeon, I’m still happy for them! It’s important that a patient feel comfortable and aren’t coerced into a procedure.

Does insurance cover second opinions?

Some insurance policies will cover second opinions, but plastic surgery often isn’t covered. Check with your insurance provider ahead of time to see what they’ll cover.

However, many surgeons provide free consultations, so there isn’t a large financial risk to seeking a second opinion.

Can you get a second opinion after surgery?

Yes, you can get a second opinion after the surgery. If your results are not what you expected, a second surgeon may be able to revise the results. However, revision cosmetic surgeries are more complicated than primary surgeries, so it is better to seek a second opinion before the surgery.

Should you get a second opinion?

So, should you get a second opinion before surgery? Do you need one? Second opinions for cosmetic surgery are not always necessary, but we recommend getting one. A second opinion has many benefits, including peace of mind and decreased risk of surgery regret.

Many cosmetic procedures are permanent, so better to take your time now and talk to another doctor than rush into the surgery and regret it later.

Why choose Dr. Saber for your plastic surgery second opinion?

Dr. Sepideh Saber is a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in the greater Los Angeles area. This Stanford University graduate offers a sensitive female perspective to patients of all genders and ages. For her, each plastic surgery is an opportunity to understand a patient’s ideals, values, and priorities. This individualized approach helps her provide her patients with the safest and most satisfactory experience.

To request a consultation, call (877) 205-4100 or schedule a consultation online.

The practice of Dr. Saber is located in Encino, CA for patients throughout the Los Angeles area. We are also convenient to Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Malibu, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, Silverlake, and Echo Park. Online consultations are also available.

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    Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS

    👩🏻‍⚕️ Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
    🏫 Stanford/USC/NYU Trained
    🏥 Encino, CA | Book a Free Consult
    ☎️ (833) 215-0500
    💌 info@saberplasticsurgery.com

    ✨A beautiful breast reduction by Dr. Saber! She is only 4 weeks Post-Op and we are absolutely thrilled with her results✨

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!

____________________________
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⭐️To set up a consultation:⁠
🔸 Call : (833) 215-0500⁠
🔸 info@saberplasticsurgery.com ⁠
🔸 saberplasticsurgery.com
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  #breastaugmentation #breastsurgery #breastreduction #liposuction #tummytuck  #tummytucksurgery #abdominoplasty #tummytuckjourney #MommyMakeover #otoplasty #earpinning #earreshaping
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    So appreciative of every kind word my patients have shared about me. 🙏😊🌺 

#cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #plasticsurgeonlosangeles #losangeles #liposuctionlosangeles #drsaberplasticsurgery
    Breast implants have come a long way! 👙✨ Gummy bear implants are gaining attention as a durable and natural-looking alternative to traditional options. Curious about the benefits? Tap the link in my bio to learn more. 

#CosmeticSurgery #BreastAugmentation #cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #plasticsurgeonlosangeles #losangeles #liposuctionlosangeles #drsaberplasticsurgery
    Throwback to 2019! ☺️👶🏻❤️
    ✨ Our beautiful patient came in for a Tummy Tuck, Lipo of Abdomen and Flanos, and Fat Transfer to the hips . ✨

Our Tummy Tuck procedure reduces excess skin, tissue, and fat around the abdomen as well as tightening abdominal muscles, while Liposuction uses a suction technique to remove the fat from specific areas of the body that holds onto fat deposits.

Liposuction is not a substitute for our Tummy Tuck. However, depending on our patient both can go great together and gives amazing results!

Her after photo is 6 weeks post op. 

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!

____________________________
⁠
⭐️To set up a consultation:⁠
🔸 Call : (833) 215-0500⁠
🔸 info@saberplasticsurgery.com ⁠
🔸 saberplasticsurgery.com

#lipo #liposuction #plasticsurgeon #breastaugmentation #beforeandafter #beauty #cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #breastsurgery #losangeles #facelift #breastimplants  #lipinjections #botox #bbl #filler #breastlift #saline #chinlipo #liposuction #defined #consultation  #procedure
    ✨ Our patient is 4 weeks post Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction.

Her scars are a bit fresh. Overtime they will heal and become less visible. ✨

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!
___________________________
⁠
⭐️To set up a consultation:⁠
🔸 Call : (833) 215-0500⁠
🔸 info@saberplasticsurgery.com ⁠
🔸 saberplasticsurgery.com
___________________________
#breastreduction 
#breastimplants #breastsurgery #breastaugmentation 
#plasticsurgery  #plasticsurgeon 
#tummytuck  #tummytucksurgery #abdominoplasty #tummytuckjourney #MommyMakeover #SaberPlasticSurgery #honestplasticsurgeon #beforeandafter #beauty #losangeles
    My patients' happiness always comes first, it drives me every day to deliver the best care possible. 🌸

#cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #plasticsurgeonlosangeles #losangeles #liposuctionlosangeles #drsaberplasticsurgery

  • What patients say about Dr. Saber

    4.8
    Over 16 Reviews

    I was fortunate to find Dr. Saber after researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast cancer reconstruction revision surgery. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I spoke with the lovely and efficient Marlene, Dr Saber's office manager. Dr Saber patiently listened to my concerns and, after examining me, explained what I could realistically expect the outcome to be from another surgery. She also explained to me that she would need to review my previous surgery notes before we could discuss a possible further surgery, which I found comforting and highly ethical. I also discussed a couple of other procedures that I would like done, including fat removal from my large upper arms that had caused me great embarrassment for several years. Dr. Saber is an excellent surgeon who is incredibly kind and genuine. She truly understands the female body and the emotional aspect of body insecurities yet, she is transparent about what can and cannot be done and takes time to discuss realistic expectations and outcomes. My breast reconstruction revision surgery will take place in the New Year, but in the meantime, I have the most fabulous upper arms that I recently flaunted in a strapless dress (something I have not done in years). Dr Saber is truly one of a kind, and I still cannot believe how fortunate I am to have found her. I highly recommend Dr Saber.

    Linda DeCarlo November 29, 2023

    I don’t have enough wonderful words to describe Dr Saber and Marlene! I had a tummy tuck done this year and from start to finish the entire experience was amazing. Marlene is always so helpful and works so hard to make every detail a breeze for you. When I had my consultation with Dr Saber I was at a point of complete agony with my body. She instantly took that stress and frustration off my shoulders! As a woman not being heard by doctors for years I left that consultation with happy tears knowing I had finally found my Dr. It was a major surgery and I felt completely zen and at peace going in because she really does make you feel that safe. I didn’t think I would ever look the way I do now! She gave me the gift of having the body I kept fighting for. I will never stop recommending her.

    Monica Prusa October 9, 2023

    I saw Dr. Saber when I broke my wrist. I ended up having to have surgery. She did an excellent job and I am healing nicely. She was very professional, but was also very kind and compassionate. I would highly recommend her!!

    Sandy Schaupp September 13, 2022

    I LOVED DR SABER!!! There are a few reasons why I chose her. One was because she’s a female Doctor that was my goal who also did a good job (which I was able to confirm with all her before and after photos) and what sold me was my safety in mind. She made me feel like I was in the best hands ever along with Marlene who coordinated everything THANK YOU LADIES! Dr Saber helped me get back the body I have always desired. I had a lot of stomach fat from weight gain and I lost weight so a lot of my weight was in my front lower and upper abdomen. Now I have a super beautiful curvy body like an hourglass after a tummy tuck and lipo she did. She understood the assignment hahaha . I’m 32 years old no kids just wanted to enjoy my younger body looking and feeling beautiful and she really took good care of me. Even after hours I had an emergency due to my fault but she was there and got back to me very quickly and I’m very grateful. I also think her work says a lot because I stopped taking pain medication on the 3rd day after surgery and was fine with very minimal pain I was able to tolerate the healing process. Highly recommend going with her I just had a wonderful experience and would do it all over again if I had too. Maybe after I have kids. Thanks Dr Saber and team <3

    STEPHANIE d July 15, 2022

    Dr.Saber is by far one of the best plastic surgeons. I love how she takes her time to explain any procedure to the patients understanding. She always makes sure to answers any and all questions.From fillers to body contours she’s the one you want.

    Katherine Melara February 15, 2022

    Dr Saber is amazing! She is caring and very informative. I went in for fillers and she explained procedure step by step. I highly recommend her and look forward to future visits.

    Amanda Vazquez December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. She took time to listen, answer all my questions and was forthright in her recommendations. Her staff was friendly and helpful. I was very happy with the results and plan on going back. If you are looking for a first rate professional experience look no further she is the doctor for you!

    T R December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber is one of a kind plastic surgeon with a heart of gold. She is a well verse plastic surgeon that puts her patient's needs before anything else. She genuinely cares about every single patient, and her work speaks for itself. I notice every post-operative result on her Instagram (@saberplasticsurgery) the patients have this glow that radiates through. I have been going to Dr. Saber for my Botox for the past 3 years, and love the results every time. I know who I will be going to for any future plastic surgery needs, and will confidently refer family and friends to Dr. Saber for any Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery consultations.

    Rudy Garcia December 16, 2020

    I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Saber! I am so pleased with my results from a breast augmentation she performed on me back in late June! She answered all my questions and concerns before and after my surgery. She’s very easy to get in contact with and she’s so nice. She made feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. 100/10 Lover her work!!

    Amanda Villegas October 15, 2020

    Dr Saber is hands down the best surgeon! She took her time answering my questions and explained procedure in detail. After doing liposuction six months ago, I am extremely happy with my results and I appreciate her so much.

    Marlene Cosentino October 15, 2020

    Dr. Saber is so kind and thorough with her patients! She is an amazing doctor and genuinely cars about everyone she comes in contact with. I would recommend her to anyone for any hand surgery or cosmetic procedure.

    Rachel Meach October 15, 2020