Every week, I operate between two and three days. Each day, I have to organize the order of the cases based on the type of procedure, the patients’ health, and any preferences each might have. Being that today is 7/11, 2 numbers considered lucky by some, I thought I would share my insights on case order, day of the week, and Friday the 13th.
I only schedule as many cases as I know I can do with complete concentration and maximal effort. I will close the date when that number is booked, and everyone else will have to find a different day. It is not fair to the other patients on that day. To me, the first patient and the last patient are equally important, and the quality will be the same.
Not everyone can be the first case. This is basic math. First priority is always safety, so Diabetics are by necessity first when feasible. I try to also do small fine motor cases such as eyelids early, as they are quick and recover easily.
I do not like doing big cases last, as recovery can be longer, and I want my staff to stay fresh and allow the patient extra time to be safely discharged. Heavier patients also need more attention.
I love operating on Friday the 13th. I experience no difference from any other Friday, and the patients who do not care are usually very rational people, which always helps.
Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays- it doesn’t matter to me. I am as fresh on any of the days, as I take my work seriously and rest appropriately. I take my responsibility to each patient as a sacred trust which I would never break.
The only lucky numbers in Plastic Surgery are 212-543-1700. That is my telephone number at Yager Esthetics.