I like to set the stage early. When patients come in for a consultation, I don’t wait until after their procedure to bring up reviews. I plant the seed right from the start. Why? Because asking for a review at the moment of greatest satisfaction works best when you’ve prepped them for it.

This isn’t just a nice idea—it’s science.

Cialdini’s excellent book, “Pre-Suasion” teaches us that people are more likely to say yes when you prepare them in advance. From the moment patients walk into our practice, they see glowing testimonials everywhere:

📖 The Wall of Love: A physical display of real patient reviews all over your walls. Massive social-proof.

📖 The Testimonial Book: When patients register, they get a book full of our best reviews and handwritten cards. I tell them, “Take a look—find someone in here who had the same journey you’re about to start.”

What’s happening here? Patients see the outcomes they want and start imagining themselves as the next success story. That’s powerful pre-suasion.

Later, after the procedure, I send an NPS survey. I ask, “On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to recommend us?” The nines and tens are gold—these are your advocates. They’re not just likely to leave a review—they’re likely to refer others.

But here’s the kicker: they’re not surprised when I ask for a review. They expect it because I told them upfront, which primes them to say yes when satisfaction is high.

And how do I ask? In-person – 100% reach rate.

Followed by SMS. With a 98% open rate, it’s the best way to get seen and acted on quickly.

Email? I’ll do it, but expect a 20% open rate at best.

If you’re not setting expectations early, you’re leaving reviews—and referrals—on the table.

Want more happy patients sharing their success stories? Start seeding the idea on Day 1.