1. Will it hurt?
During the procedure, anesthesia ensures that you're comfortable and feel no pain. If a general anesthesia is used, you'll even sleep through the entire operation. If a local is used, it will be coupled with other medication to make sure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure, and during your post-operative recovery. After surgery any pain or discomfort you may experience can usually be controlled by medication, and will usually subside within a matter of days.
2. How soon can I return to work?
It depends greatly on the procedure, but on average most plastic surgery patients are back to work within 7 - 14 days.
3. Will everyone know?
Usually not. Good plastic surgery enhances your looks naturally and often goes unnoticed. Friends may ask if you've been on a vacation, started a new diet or changed your exercise regime, but typically they won't know unless you tell them.
4. How long will the results last?
Procedures that focus on rejuvenation, such as face lift, forehead lift, and eyelid surgery can last 10 years. Procedures that reshape or correct an imbalance such as surgery of the nose, chin augmentation, breast augmentation and breast reduction offer permanent benefits that last a lifetime.
5. Will there be scars?
Yes, every incision produces some kind of scar. Will they be noticeable? Probably not. Your surgeon will make every effort to keep scars as minimal as possible, and try to hide them in the natural lines and creases of your skin. For the majority of the procedures your scars will fade over time, and become barely noticeable.
6. How long does it take?
Not as long as you would think. Most procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, require no overnight stay, and usually take only a few hours. You'll probably have to come in about an hour before surgery, and stay a couple of hours after surgery to recover from the anesthesia. Overnight stays are available and for some are more restful and convenient than having to return to the clinic the following day to have post-operative dressings replaced. Or, if you prefer, you can have a friend or relative pick you up and take you home following your post-operative recovery period.
7. Is it expensive?
Not really. Prices have definitely come down over the years while advancements in surgical techniques have made quality go up. Prices have become so reasonable that just about anyone can afford it.
8. Will my medical plan cover it?
Most usually, reconstructive surgery is covered by insurance. Breast reduction, breast reconstruction, septoplasty, skin cancer removal, reconstruction from cancer and trauma as well as birth defects are almost universally covered. Cosmetic surgery is almost never covered by insurance. We encourage you to come meet with us to discuss your options. If your procedure is medically necessary, we will contact your insurance company to determine coverage. Financial plans are also available if you qualify.
9. How do I choose a plastic or reconstructive surgeon?
Choosing a surgeon is a very important and a very personal decision. First of all, check your doctor's credentials. In order to become a certified plastic surgeon, a physician must complete seven years of postgraduate study which includes a thorough grounding in general surgery and a minimum of two years in an approved plastic surgery training center. He or she is then eligible for the certification examination. Secondly, meet with the doctor for an initial consultation. Do you feel comfortable with the doctor? Does he fully explain the benefits and the risks associated with the procedure you are considering? Does she listen to your concerns and respond accordingly?
10. What is my next step?
Make an appointment for your private consultation with Dr. Lentz. You may call us at (386) 252-8051, 1-800-453-9431, or contact us via email so that we can have our office call you to schedule your private consultation.
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