Who is a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?
How do I choose a cosmetic surgeon?
How long before I can go back to work?
What can I do to prepare for surgery?
WHAT IS A COSMETIC SURGEON
A physician certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery must:
be board-certified in an original surgical specialty recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties,
have completed a fellowship approved by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery,
have performed no fewer than 1,000 cosmetic surgical procedures,
be currently performing a minimum of 200 documented cosmetic procedures per year,
pass a stringent two-day oral and written examination, and
be of good moral character.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR COSMETIC SURGERY
A good candidate for cosmetic surgery seeks to improve a particular aspect of his or her appearance, has realistic expectations about what the surgery can and cannot accomplish, is in good physical condition, and is willing to follow the surgeon's recommendations regarding pre-and-post-operative care.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A COSMETIC SURGEON
Ask about your doctor's training specific to cosmetic surgery and how often the doctor performs the procedure you are considering. Meet with the surgeon and make sure you are comfortable with the surgeon and all questions are answered satisfactorily. Seek a second opinion to be able to compare various surgical techniques. Most importantly make sure what the doctor is recommending makes sense to you and are comfortable with his suggestions and overall ideology.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS
Cosmetic surgery is real surgery and therefore, it involves some degree of risk. Fortunately, complications are seldom and are usually correctable. You can minimize your risks and potential complications by strictly adhering to your doctor's instructions for preparing for surgery and for caring for yourself post-operatively.
HOW LONG BEFORE I CAN GO BACK TO WORK
Although recovery time varies widely depending on the surgery and your body's ability to heal, most cosmetic surgery patients can return to light activity within three to ten days. You are advised to take a least the first week off to focus on healing. By the end of week two, most of the swelling and bruising will have subsided.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREPARE FOR SURGERY
If you smoke or use any form of nicotine, stop now. Eat well-balanced meals and drink at least 32 ounces of water a day. Get plenty of sleep and exercise and consider taking a multi-vitamin supplement. Three weeks before surgery, stop all vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen and other over-the-counter blood thinners. You may continue taking Tylenol. (If you are taking Coumadin or other prescription medications, do not stop your medication without consulting with your physician). Many herbal supplements such as Gingko, Ginseng and Garlic also promote bleeding and may interfere with anesthesia. Please inquire for more detailed information.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST
Dr. Schwarcz is individual in his approach to cosmetic and reconstructive surgery and assesses each patient's surgical needs individually. We are therefore unable to give an estimate of fees before your consultation with the doctor. Please contact us to setup a consultation.