Abstract
Far from being simply a cursory step, the initial consultation between the patient
and plastic surgeon, when patient selection usually occurs, can be complicated. Proper
patient selection is the key first step toward a successful outcome from a proposed
procedure. Not only must the physical and health status of the patient be understood,
but the surgeon quickly must determine whether the emotional and psychological attributes
and expectations of a particular patient are up to the rigors of the particular surgery
being discussed. The concepts of expectations and satisfaction, personality types,
and the difficult patient will be discussed. Yes, predicting the future is part of
the surgeon's valued armamentaria. But even experienced and astute physicians cannot
always make perfect decisions.
Keywords
patient selection - consultation - management - difficult patient
