If the preoperative exam and evaluation show anatomy is too unpredictable, or your goals can’t be met, pushing ahead isn’t brave, it’s reckless.
A thoughtful no protects your eyes, your face, your function, and your trust. It’s not rejection, it’s honesty. When a surgeon says no, they’re putting your long-term well-being first.
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That’s a wrap!!!
6 hours agochristinegreermd
Strength. I’m going to replay this for myself once a month because I do get really upset about physician shaming and unfortunately take it personally sometimes
2 days agoshamounaesthetics
Excellent words of wisdom and Absolutely “spot on”It’s all about expectations . Some patients are not realistic yet have severe problems wanting 100 % correction instead of improvement .
2 days agodrlaurabermejo
I do the same in my practice and sometimes patients feel disappointed or annoyed, but others are grateful and that is precisely what it’s all about!
2 days agodrantonioequintero
Dear Dr. Massey, You have touched on a very important issue. In our daily practice, we frequently encounter patients who come to us with unrealistic expectations, hoping to correct the results of previous treatments or surgeries, or to resolve complications from earlier procedures. Sometimes, their expectations are simply too high, or, as you mentioned, the damage is irreversible. In these situations, we cannot offer surgical solutions or promise the degree of recovery they hope for. I believe one of the greatest challenges we face today as oculoplastic surgeons is precisely managing patients’ expectations. Even when we carefully explain that certain problems cannot be corrected, improved, or resolved, some patients find it very difficult to accept this reality. Thank you for highlighting such an important and relevant issue in our specialty. Warm regards, Antonio Quintero 🇨🇴
2 days agonimax310
It was as if this post was for me today as I went for a consult with a very skilled, well respected surgeon today 10/15/26 and after examining me referred me to a another surgeon who possibly performed the technique needed for my specific correction. I admire his honesty and integrity to make this decision and not give me false hopes for what the outcome might be had he taken my case for correction. Great words of wisdom Dr Massry. Thank you for sharing and being available to someone like me who is struggling as to my next step if any.
3 days agodrbrianjoseph
👏 well said! I have had the same experiences. Knowing when not to operate is just as important as knowing when to operate, especially if it's not "fixable", expectations can't be met or medically not healthy enough. First do not harm, words we live by.
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