Dr. Thomas J. Zaydon, MD, FACS, founder of the Plastic Surgery Institute of Miami, has over 25 years of experience in surgical care and expert witness consultancy. As a recognized authority in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, he is frequently requested nationwide for his knowledge in abdominoplasty, rhinoplasty, burn surgery, and other procedures. Dr. Zaydon helps patients with aesthetic success and the patient's health before and after their operation. Read his story as a plastic surgeon and expert witness.
What is your role and how did you get to where you are today?
I am a board certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience. By working in the ER and treating injured patients, I found being an expert witness has been beneficial to the court system.
What kinds of cases do you typically work on, and what types of attorneys or law firms seek your expertise?
I have been retained by both defense and plaintiff firms. It is important to know both sides of the issue. The types of cases I work on vary. I have attorneys call me for nasal fractures, catastrophic burns, ruptured implants, botched plastic surgery procedures, review of case if the procedure was performed correctly, and reviewing hospital/nursing home/emergency room records and notes. Since I currently work in the emergency room and have privileges at a level 2 trauma center, attorneys seeking my expertise want me to offer my opinion.
How do you prepare to write an expert witness report?
I prepare to write an expert witness report by interviewing the patient and gather all the pertinent information. I ask how the incident or accident occurred, or how the procedure was performed. I also review any documents like CT scans, x-rays, operative reports, MMI ratings, photographs, and record review to substantiate my report.
Why is it important to be a strong writer as an expert witness, and what's the most important element of an effective report?
My involvement is important to the case. It can either make it or break it. It is important to communicate the facts without fabrication and really tell the story.
There are three important elements that make an effective expert witness report: great writing abilities, obtaining all pertinent information, and preparing a history of what transpired and what can be done to address any issues or concerns regarding the client in question.
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What surprising mistake in an expert witness report can hurt credibility?
I have not had this happen, but it is important to stick to the facts and stay in your wheelhouse. In my case, I am a plastic surgeon. I do not offer opinions or other matters outside my specialties.
What makes an expert witness credible to a judge or jury?
Telling the truth, looking at the judge and jury without fidgeting, speaking slowly, and answering the questions as they are asked builds credibility. Another way to gain credibility is to admit when you don't know or have the answer.
What role does reputation play in getting hired repeatedly as an expert witness?
If you want to stay in business and be a great expert, be careful to only report what you have seen or viewed in records or sight. Only report the facts.
Word of mouth advertising is the best way to get retained repeatedly as an expert witness. I also have a website, Experts.com profile, and LinkedIn.
What are the top 3 skills an expert witness must have for success?
The top three skills an expert witness must have for success are:
1. Good interviewing skills.
2. Good communication skills with attorneys, clients, and patients.
3. A great report and subject matter.
About the Author
Dr. Thomas J. Zaydon is a Board Certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 30 years of experience. He treats burns, scars, nasal fractures, facial fractures, open wounds, skin ulcers, and ruptured/displaced breast/body implants. He has hands-on experience with difficult catastrophic cases, including severe burn victims.
Dr. Zaydon is the Chief of Plastic Surgery at Mercy Hospital and the founder of Plastic Surgery Institute of Miami. He is a world-renowned leader in plastic surgery and aesthetic care, and holds medical licenses in Florida, Louisiana, and New York.
Visit Dr. Zaydon's Experts.com profile and connect with him on LinkedIn.
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