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The term "Plastic" surgery is derived from the Greek word meaning to form or to mold. Cosmetic surgery is a very specialized area of plastic surgery in which surgeons correct undesirable physical features and turn back the clock on the physical signs of aging. Please look below for an answer to common questions about cosmetic surgery.

Common Questions

It is important to know the facts before committing to any surgical procedure. There are many reasons why people desire cosmetic surgery. Many want to look better for self-improvement. Others may feel cosmetic surgery is necessary to enhance their careers. Often advances in the competitive business world come easier for those who project a bright, youthful, rested appearance. To achieve this there are many different procedures and combinations of procedures which enable the surgeon to create the artistry and flair that is necessary to make each patient know that the procedure was designed for their own individual needs. The surgeon plans for a more natural look that can be achieved while eliminating undesirable features and enhancing good physical characteristics.

The goal of cosmetic surgery is improvement not perfection. There are inherent challenges with each patient such as health, skin texture, bone conformation, age and the condition of the feature to be improved. The ultimate goal is to achieve a natural improved appearance with a minimal amount of surgery and a short period of recovery.

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Creating a Positive Mental Attitude

Appearance is important. The ultimate reason for improving your appearance--whether through cosmetic surgery, hairstyling, body sculpturing with liposuction procedures, breast enhancement or permanent eyeliner, is to have a more positive mental attitude. This is evidenced by the millions of dollars that are spent each year on cosmetics, hair styling, manicuring, diets, health spas and clothing. Cosmetic surgery is simply an extension of this desire to look better. It is a rewarding, satisfying experience, not vanity.

It is important to realize that having cosmetic surgery is a personal decision. It will not only change the way family and friends feel about you, but also the way you feel about yourself.

How should I select a surgeon?

It is important to establish rapport with the surgeon since you place total confidence in that doctor's ability. Select a surgeon who compares alternatives, explains clearly what will be done for you and the rationale for the approach selected. Be sure he discusses convalescence and possible risks. Choose a surgeon who communicates and has a clear understanding of your desired result.

You should carefully evaluate the proposed surgery and the surgeon himself before proceeding. Insist on certain qualifications. Ask specific questions about the doctor's training. Is the surgeon Board Certified? Has he fellowship training or specialized training in the procedures you want performed? A specialist does the same procedures far more often and therefore has greater experience and skill than most surgeons. Does the surgeon have aesthetic taste compatible with yours? These questions can be answered through referrals to other patients, and physicians

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Why should I choose a surgery center?

Many cosmetic procedures can be performed in an office operating suite that is well equipped similar to a hospital facility.

What should I know about anesthesia?

When necessary, twilight sleep or light general anesthesia is administered by a competent anesthetist or anesthesiologist. The level of anesthesia will vary with the needs of each patient.  The type of anesthetic is clearly described at the time of consultation and is tailored to the patient's needs for surgery. The patient will remain in the recovery area until able to be discharged. Your surgeon will ask you to have a friend or family member to drive you home after the operation. 

What are the risks?

Although complications are possible, they are very rare. Most patients accept the risks after consideration. A full description of every possible complication is beyond the scope of this text, but risks specific to each procedure will be discussed in the appropriate section.

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How long will my recovery be?

The period of recovery depends on the surgery performed. After surgery strenuous physical activities are limited. You can resume normal activities within a few days depending upon the  surgical procedure.

In some cases there will be temporary swelling, bruising and discomfort. The most common concern is an uncomfortable feeling, not pain. Pain is surprisingly minimal and easily controlled with medication. Mild analgesics are used in most cases, but stronger medication is given when necessary.

The surgeon will discuss your postoperative visits for removal of dressings and sutures. Special arrangements are made for patients who are from out of town and arrangements are usually available for patients who do not live in the area, or choose to spend a few days after surgery away from their families.

Care is taken to place the incision in the natural skin creases or skin folds along inconspicuous areas so they are not visible when the healing process is completed. The incision may be pink for several weeks postoperatively, but is easily camouflaged the day after suture removal. Complete maturation of the surgical area takes more than one year, though in most cases after one or two weeks, only the patient and physician can detect the surgical incision. Time is the single most important factor in the healing process.

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How are fees determined?

In general cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance. Insurance will only pay when the surgery is done for reconstruction of deformities caused by accidents or when surgery improves function which is impaired by a physical deformity such as a septal deviation in rhinoplasty (nasal surgery). If an insurance company is to be billed for the surgery, the doctor's office staff will usually submit the insurance claim forms and documents to your insurance company for payment.

Fees are generally determined based on each patient's needs. Our center does not charge for an initial consultation. All fees cover post surgery visits. Fees are clearly explained to the patient at the time of the first consultation.

Why should I schedule an initial consultation

At the time of your visit the extent of your surgery will be carefully discussed and an evaluation made. A consultation helps to clarify the patient's desires and the surgeons plan. There is no standard operation which applies to the same patient. An operation will be designed during this consultation specifically for you and all of the details will be explained.

The most important goal of the consultation is to clearly communicate. Caution is advised in looking at before and after photos. These can often be misleading and may not reflect your particular needs. To help bridge the gap, computer graphics are often employed. Some surgeons are using this tool to show patients what they will look like after surgery.

In general, the consultation helps the patient understand what can be achieved. It helps the doctor understand the patient's desires and, most importantly, it gives the patient an opportunity to ask valuable questions and decide if surgery is right for them.

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Why are pictures taken before and after surgery?

Pictures are taken prior to surgery to help plan the procedure. They are useful guides which surgeon will use in planning and preparing for your procedure. In addition, postoperative photos are taken to enable you and the surgeon to evaluate the results of the procedure.

Informed Consent

You will be asked to review and sign a form that clearly describes your desired operation. This informed consent is a legal document and your authorization allows the surgeon to perform the surgery.