QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK DURING A CONSULTATION
Choosing a qualified plastic surgeon—and making an informed decision—can be intense and confusing. Which is why The Refine Institute has compiled a list of suggested questions for you to ask of any cosmetic surgeon, as well as answers from our own Dr. Cozart. In addition to finding a doctor who works with the latest in technology and minimally invasive techniques, you should ask the following questions:
What type of board certification should I look for in a doctor?
You should be looking for a surgeon that is board certified in plastic surgery. Board certified means the physician has completed a rigorous certification process by a board that is an expert in his or her specialty. Dr. Cozart is board certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Dr. Cozart is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Medical Association. The ASPS is the only one of the 24 boards approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties that certifies physicians in plastic surgery of the face and all areas of the body.
What type of training should my doctor have?
• A minimum of five years of surgical training, including a 2-3 year plastic surgery residency.
- Dr. Cozart performed two years of general surgery training at Carraway Methodist Medical Center.
- Dr. Cozart performed his three-year plastic surgery residency at The University of Tennessee.
• Additional training specifically geared toward their specialty.
- Dr. Cozart has specialty training in Craniofacial surgery, Cosmetic Surgery, Power-Assisted Liposuction and Smartlipo.
• Training with renowned experts.
Who will perform the surgery and all of the postoperative care?
Dr. Cozart performs all procedures at the Refine Institute and will conduct all of your follow-up care. No residents or medical students perform any part of your surgery.
After performing any plastic surgery, Dr. Cozart sees all of his patients the day after their surgery. Then, he sees them at regular intervals out past 1 year.
Does this surgeon care about the rest of me or are they just selling a procedure?
The Refine Institute is a complete resource for evaluating and treating the whole person. Cosmetic procedures are just one aspect of wellness, which is why we offer a unique, 360º approach to patient health. Our in-house wellness counselor will guide you in your own personal refinement process. Very few plastic surgery practices offer this.
If the procedure is to be done in an outpatient center or an office, is the facility certified by a respected accrediting agency?
The Refine Institute’s surgical center adheres to the strict guidelines of the American Associate for Ambulatory Health Care. Additionally, some larger procedures are conducted at the Presbyterian Same Day Surgical Center in Ballantyne, which is state licensed by the state of North Carolina and JCAHO approved.
Does the doctor give his own sedation?
While some physicians offer a cheaper price because they offer their own sedation, The Refine Institute contracts with state-licensed anesthesia providers with excellent records of safety and patient care.
Does the office offer financing?
Since most people cannot afford to pay for many cosmetic procedures in one lump sum, this may be an important question to consider. The Refine Institute accepts Visa, Master Card, and American Express. Also, we have a partnership with Care Credit, the leader in patient financing. Our patient coordinators can assist you in setting up your account and selecting the appropriate option for you financial needs.