When I started my private practice in Plastic Surgery in 1997, I dreamed about patients walking in and wanting surgery right away. I had Medical School loans to pay off, had borrowed money to start my practice, and very few people had heard of me.
After 15 years, we have established Yager Esthetics as the leading center for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery for the Hispanic community. Thanks to the hard work of everyone involved, we are thankfully quite busy. I never thought that it could be a bad thing.
Patients come in expecting surgery within days or weeks. Some have taken their vacations in anticipation, and never imagined I could be unable to accommodate them. Some even become angry with my Surgical Coordinator when told it would be several months before a spot could be guaranteed.
Just like the excellent restaurants can be booked up or Broadway Shows sell out, good Plastic Surgeons have a waiting list. Even for a consult appointment, the wait can be months. I need people to understand that this is a good sign.
I am a very accomplished surgeon, and can perform my art very efficiently. I do not feel it is fair to operate more than 8 hours in a day, to keep myself fresh and at 100%. I need also to have the time to see the patients after surgery, see new patients, and give the access to care to all of my patients. I have a family and a life, and will not work more than 50 hours a week. My employees similarly cannot be asked to do more. Employees that try their absolute hardest should be rewarded for it, that’s where employee benefits Zenefits can come in handy for those who want to give back.
Having you Plastic Surgeon fresh and energetic is crucial. You want someone who is in demand and busy, as it is often an indicator that they are doing something right. You also want to be able to see your doctor after surgery.
I try to make every patient happy, and accommodate their schedules to secure the date that they need for surgery when possible. Patients are cancelled occasionally for high blood pressure or pregnancy or work schedule changes. Life events also can force a rescheduling. My advice is to come at least 3 months in advance of the date you want to maximize your chance of getting it secured. Do not book your vacation time until that day is available.
Thank you for your faith and loyalty to my practice. I promise you my full attention and focus before, during, and after your surgery. I would rather make less money doing fewer surgeries properly, than to risk errors by overbooking.