DR HENRY SHEPHERD
Your Initial Consultation with Dr Shepherd
To schedule an appointment please email: info@drshepherd.com.au or call the consulting location that best suits you.
Dr Shepherd consults at three locations across Sydney’s East and South.
Comprehensive Assessment and Discussion
During your consultation, Dr Shepherd will conduct a thorough assessment of your individual concerns and medical history. This begins with a detailed discussion about your personal goals, expectations, and any specific areas you'd like to address. Dr Shepherd takes time to understand not just what you hope to achieve, but also your lifestyle, recovery preferences, and any concerns you may have about the surgical process.
Physical Examination
Dr Shepherd will perform a comprehensive physical examination of the treatment areas, assessing your anatomy, skin quality, and overall health. This examination helps determine which surgical approaches would be most suitable for your unique situation and ensures you're a good candidate for your desired procedures.
Personalised Treatment Recommendations
Based on his assessment, Dr Shepherd will recommend the most appropriate procedures to help you achieve your desired outcomes. He'll explain why certain techniques may be better suited to your goals and anatomy, discussing the benefits and limitations of each option. If multiple procedures could address your concerns, he'll outline the differences to help you make an informed decision.
What to Bring to Your Initial Consultation
Medicare card and private health insurance details - This helps determine any potential rebates or coverage for your procedure
Referral letter from your GP or specialist if you have one (though not always required)
Complete list of current medications including vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications
Medical history summary including any previous surgeries, medical conditions, or allergies
Previous surgical reports or medical records related to the area you're considering for treatment
Imaging results (if applicable) such as mammograms, ultrasounds, or other scans related to your consultation
Photos or examples of results you'd like to achieve (magazine clippings, online images, etc.) - these help Dr Shepherd understand your aesthetic goals
Previous photos of yourself (optional) showing how you looked before any changes occurred, which can be helpful for reconstructive consultations
List of prepared questions you'd like to ask Dr Shepherd
Support person - you're welcome to bring a partner, friend, or family member for emotional support and to help remember information discussed
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the consultation area if examination is required.
Consultation Duration
Please plan for approximately 45-60 minutes for your initial consultation to allow adequate time for thorough discussion and examination.
Remember, this consultation is your opportunity to ask questions and gather information. Dr Shepherd wants you to feel fully informed and comfortable with any decisions you make about your care.
Medical Photography
An important part of your consultation involves taking clinical photographs for your medical record. These images serve multiple purposes:
Treatment planning: Photos help Dr Shepherd analyse your anatomy and plan the most effective surgical approach
Before and after documentation: Baseline images allow you to see your results objectively after surgery
Communication tool: Photos can be referenced during follow-up appointments to track healing and results
Surgical reference: Images assist Dr Shepherd during your procedure for optimal outcomes.
All photographs are taken with the utmost professionalism and discretion, using clinical photography standards. Your privacy is completely protected, and these images are stored securely as part of your confidential medical record.
Detailed Surgical Planning
During your consultation, you'll receive comprehensive information about:
The recommended surgical procedure(s) and techniques
Expected results and timeline for seeing final outcomes
Recovery process, including time off work and activity restrictions
Potential risks and complications, and how they're minimised
Costs involved, including surgery, anaesthesia, and facility fees
Pre-operative preparation requirements
Dr Shepherd encourages questions throughout your consultation and will ensure you have all the information needed to make a confident decision. You'll never feel rushed or pressured to proceed immediately. Many patients choose to take time to consider their options, and follow-up consultations may be arranged if needed.
Post-Consultation Process
Following your consultation, you'll receive detailed written information about your recommended procedures. If you decide to proceed, the team will guide you through scheduling your surgery, pre-operative instructions, and arranging any necessary medical clearances.
Dr Shepherd's goal is to ensure you feel fully informed, comfortable, and confident in your decision, whether you choose to proceed with surgery or explore other options.
DR HENRY SHEPHERD
Sydney Plastic Surgeon
A personalised approach to address your specific needs. During your consultation, Dr Shepherd will assess your individual concerns, discuss your personal goals, and will make recommendations for the most appropriate procedures to help you achieve your desired outcomes.