Communication and Cosmetic Surgery

Abstract

This excerpt refers to the important role that communication plays in case of malpractice claims brought against plastic surgeons. Evidence exists to show that communication issues are central to claims handled by medical insurers and statutory bodies around the world that deal with medical malpractice issues (Levinson et al., 1997; Richards, 1990). Even though good communication is central to the any doctor–patient relationship, (Ong et al., 1995) little is known about how this process works in the cosmetic surgery setting. While the role of effective communication has been underlined in primary care, little evidence exists from the tertiary-care setting. As part of the process of understanding the doctor–patient encounter in cosmetic surgery, one of the key themes this study examined was communication between women and the cosmetic surgery practice.

Regardless of technical ability, someone who appears cold, arrogant, or insensitive is far more likely to be sued than one who relates on a ‘human’ level. Obviously, a personality that is warm, sensitive, naturally caring, coupled with a well-developed sense of humor and cordial attitude, is much less likely to be the target of a malpractice claim. The ability to communicate clearly and well is probably the most outstanding characteristic of the claims-free surgeon. Communication is the sine qua non of building a doctor-patient relationship.

—(Gorney & Martello, 1999: 37)