Fees will be discussed with you during your initial consultation visit. Although estimates will be given over the telephone, sometimes, different or additional procedures are recommended as compared with the initial inquiry. Therefore, the most accurate cost estimate can be given during an office consultation.

Payment for cosmetic surgery is required two weeks in advance of surgery. Bank or personal checks, master card or visa are accepted. Hospital and anesthesia packages are available resulting in discounted rates. Financing plans through independent companies are also available. Every effort will be made to assist you in this process.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will my health insurance cover my plastic surgery?

Reconstructive surgery which is done to correct a birth defect or a disfigurement caused by trauma is usually included in most health insurance policies. Cosmetic surgery is typically not covered but there are some exceptions. For example, a septo-rhinoplasty is an operation to correct breathing problems due to nasal obstruction. At the same time, the appearance of the nose is changed cosmetically to a more aesthetic shape. The portion of surgery to correct the airway obstruction is considered by many insurance companies to be "functional" and therefore necessary surgery that would be covered. That portion of the surgery to improve the appearance of the nose would be considered cosmetic and may be excluded from coverage. It is always best to check with you insurance agent prior to having surgery to be sure of the status of the proposed operation.

Why do plastic surgeons request payment in advance instead of after the operation?

Most doctors will extend credit for essential medical services that are covered by insurance. Advance payment has solved the problem of occasional delinquent accounts for the non insurance covered cosmetic procedures.

What health problems would make me a poor candidate for cosmetic surgery?

Anyone who is in poor general health or who has such specific problems as uncontrolled hypertension, significant coronary or vascular disease or a bleeding tendency are not good candidates for elective cosmetic surgery. Patients who are severely depressed or who have significant emotional problems are likely not to be pleased with the outcome of their cosmetic surgery. Patients who are heavy smokers are at greater risk for complications following their elective cosmetic surgery.

How much pain will I have following surgery?

Although some degree of discomfort or pain is common after surgery, there is a wide variation in the way different people respond to their operation. Eyelid or facial surgery generally causes a feeling of tightness around the eyes and some sensitivity to bright light. Breast surgery is moderately uncomfortable for 1 or 2 days but the wearing of a supportive brassiere and pain medication can easily control most symptoms in most patients. Liposuction and abdominoplasty may be uncomfortable for several days but again wearing a supportive or compression garment and pain medication is sufficient for the vast majority of patients.

Are there wrong reasons to have cosmetic surgery?

In general patients who have insignificant deformities that cause excessive concern may be dissatistified with the results of their surgery. Patients who have surgery to please others rather than themselves are not good candidates for surgery. Finally, if the financial burden of the surgery is great then the surgery should be deferred until the cost is not an issue.

What if I am dissatisfied with the results of my operation?

If early healing is complete and all the swelling, discomfort and other symptoms have completely subsided and you are still dissatisfied then it is time for a realistic re-appraisal of the surgery. If you and your surgeon agree that a small corrective procedure or "touch up" operation would be beneficial then that might be recommended. Many times it may take 3 or 4 months to appreciate the full benefit of the original surgery. If necessary a minor revision or touch up procedure can often be done in the office with local anesthesia.

How long do scars stay red after surgery?

In most patients it may take 6-12 months before healing surgical scars lose their red or dark color. When a scar is mature it tends to be white or lighter in color and therefore less noticeable. Occasionally scars mat always retain some degree of redness in their appearance. There are creams and topical medications available to help with the maturation of surgical scars.

Are breast implants safe?

Breast implants have been used since about 1962. Numerous medical studies have been performed to assess their safety and it has been consistently demonstrated that breast implants are safe. Today most surgeons tend to use saline filled implants for cosmetic surgery and the silicone gel implants are used for breast cancer reconstruction. All breast implants are tracked by a registry with the implants manufacturer.

What is the best age to have eyelid surgery?

The simple answer is when the operation will make a significant improvement in the appearance of the eyes. It is common for the changes around the eyes to become noticeable after the age of forty and changes in the cheek and neck after the age of fifty. Needless to say there are numerous exceptions so what is really important is the risk/benefit ratio of surgery to result that matters the most.