How do I choose the right plastic surgeon for me?
Cosmetic surgery is an important decision. Dr.
Gouverne believes his patients should take the time to research
both the procedures being considered and the physician. You need
to make sure your physician has the proper credentials. At a minimum,
he should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Most important, however, you should be comfortable with your physician
and the staff. When you go in for your initial consultation, make
sure you ask all the questions that are on your mind. Your physician
should be willing to spend the time with you to make sure your questions
are all answered to your satisfaction. If you don't have complete
confidence in your physician and the answers he has given you, you
should not go forward with the procedure. If you're interested in
checking out the credentials of your potential surgeon, please click
on this link.
Where can I get some general information on cosmetic
procedures?
There are several ways to get some information on the various cosmetic
procedures available. One way is to visit
the following link.
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- -Recovery Questions - - -
Will I be able to tolerate the postoperative pain?
We understand each patient will tolerate postoperative pain differently.
While some patients may describe the pain as an ache, others may
experience greater discomfort. We prescribe appropriate pain medications
for postoperative patients which help minimize your discomfort.
Most facial cosmetic procedures have minimal postoperative discomfort.
Liposuction is slightly more uncomfortable, and procedures requiring
elevation or tightening of the muscles (such as abdominoplasty or
breast augmentation) may have discomfort equal to that of a C-section
or other such surgical procedure.
How long is the recuperative period and when
can I return to work?
The length of time it takes to recuperate after plastic surgery
will vary depending on the procedure performed and the patient.
Most patients will require assistance for the first two days following
surgery, and most care for themselves after that. A few patients
may still require further assistance if they are caring for small
children. The specific lengths of disability are outlined by procedure
below.
Eyelid Surgery: Patients typically can get around
independently by the second day. With the use of sunglasses, they
may feel comfortable going to the store by day 3-4, and with makeup
could return to work in 5-7 days.
Facelift Surgery: Patients usually can get around independently by the second day. They usually don't feel comfortable going out in public for 5-7 days. In many cases, patients require 10-14 days before returning to work if employed in the public eye.
Breast Surgery: Patients usually can get around independently by the second day and many may return to work at 5-7 days if they are not required to lift more than 15 pounds.
Liposuction: Patients usually can get around independently by the second day and perhaps earlier depending on the number of areas treated. Many patients return to work and normal activities in 5-7 days.
Abdominoplasty: Patients may take between 2-4 days before getting around independently. The recovery is almost identical to C-section. Patients can return to a desk job at 5-7 days, while other jobs may require 10-14 days.
When can I resume regular exercise?
The time frame in which a patient may resume her regular
exercise will vary based on the procedure performed. All patients
are encouraged to start a slow walking routine on the second day.
We recommend against aerobic and more vigorous activities during
the first two weeks in order to decrease the risks of bleeding,
swelling and bruising. Weight lifting and contact sports are normally
allowed at one month in most cases.
- - - Cost of Surgery Questions - - -
When I call around for prices on procedures
I get different quotes from different places. Why is that?
Apples and oranges. The best way to compare prices is
to simply ask for the surgeon's fee only and compare that from surgeon
to surgeon. And you should also ask for the total cost and try to
obtain a very specific quote, such as specific cost for hospital
charges, operating room charges, recovery room charges, any medication
charges, anesthesia charges, consultation fees and other fees that
might apply. This will allow you to compare prices.
How do I find out what a reasonable fee is for
a certain procedure?
The American
Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons maintains a web
site that can give you this information. Only surgeons' fees are
quoted, so it is easy to compare. Remember there are always additional
costs such as hospital fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, materials,
medications and other costs. These fees are so variable they are
not included in the ASPRS data.
Many of these plastic surgery procedures cost
about $5,000. What if I am not sure I can afford that?
Plastic surgery is an expensive investment, but you have
to compare it relative to some other major purchases you make in
your life. A very common purchase most people don't bat an eye at
making is of a new car - which may cost at least $20,000. Consider
the amount of time you are able to enjoy your car on a day-to-day
basis and compare that to the amount of time you are able to enjoy
the results of your operation. Perhaps you should consider postponing
the purchase of a new car for another half year to a year so you
can afford your surgery. Remember, $5,000 financed over three years
represents a monthly payment of $142 while $20,000 financed over
the same amount of time represents a monthly payment of $500. If
you're able to handle both payments in the same month, you can afford
a new car and your operation. But if that monthly obligation becomes
too much, perhaps you should consider postponing the purchase of
a new car so you can enjoy the results of your cosmetic procedure.
Carefully consider your overall financial picture and make a smart
decision.
I have heard of your financing program. Could
you tell me more about it?
We have a number of different cosmetic options available
for you to finance your surgery. Our cosmetic
surgery coordinator will spend time with you during your consultation
to see what the best option would be for you. Once you have made
a decision to have your surgery, the appropriate methods of financing
can usually be worked out.
Will my insurance cover any of the costs?
With the exception of a small number of procedures, cosmetic
surgery is considered "elective" and doesn't allow for
coverage by most insurance plans. However, in certain circumstances
where someone's ability to function in their day-to-day activities
is limited by a certain condition -- extremely large breasts, droopy
or sagging eyelids, or even difficulty in breathing -- you may qualify
for some insurance coverage.