Frequently Asked Questions

Aesthetic cosmetic surgery often can improve your appearance by correcting the irregularities of the face, breast and body or by eliminating some of the conspicuous signs of aging. In a society that places so much emphasis on appearance, no apologies for this type of surgery are necessary. Cosmetic surgery is not for everyone, and it is important that the person considering such surgery be well informed and understands the risks involved with this kind of surgery. It is equally important that the person have realistic expectations. The following is information, which may assist you if you are considering cosmetic surgery. Please understand that I speak in terms of the average case and variations do exist.

Who is a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?

People who are seeking an improvement in their appearance and are realistic in their expectations as to what the surgery can accomplish are good candidates. A person who is seeking absolute perfection or expects a transforming miracle is not a good candidate. While cosmetic surgery is often psychologically beneficial in increasing one's self-confidence and esteem, it is not the solution for all of one's problems. If a person is expecting more from surgery than can be accomplished physically, psychologically or socially, I will recommend they not have surgery.

How successful is cosmetic surgery?

The degree of success of an operation depends not only the skill of the surgeon and the cooperation of the patient, but also on a variety of factors. Such as the characteristics of the specific problem, the person's general health, age, skin, texture, bone structure and genetics. The healing process is influenced by these factors and is not entirely under the control of the patient or surgeon. While good results are anticipated in properly selected cases, it would be unethical for the surgeon to imply any type of warranty or guarantee.

Will it hurt?

During the operation, which is usually performed under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, there is seldom any discomfort. If there is, it is easily remedied with additional medication. While discomfort and limitations of activity after surgery are minimal, they do exist. Please remember that the healing process is temporary.

Will there be much swelling and bruising?

Most operations, especially those performed near the loose tissues of the eyes; result in some degree of swelling and bruising. The amount varies with the different procedures and the individual patient. Preoperative medications and certain operative techniques are used to keep this to a minimum. The majority of swelling that does occur usually subsides within a few days, and any temporary bruising that remains may be covered up with makeup.

What kind of anesthesia is used?

Most cosmetic surgical procedures are performed under light general anesthesia. This is a safe, reliable method that keeps the patient very comfortable and still allows for a rapid wake up after the surgery.

Will there be scars?

All surgical incisions heal by forming a scar that is permanent and cannot be erased. However, care is taken to try to make the scars as thin-lined and inconspicuous as possible and to place them in areas where they can be more easily camouflaged with makeup and hairstyles. While such scars are permanent, these are rarely noticeable or cause trouble.

Are there any risks involved?

Every surgical procedure, no matter how simple, entails some degree of risk and the possibility of complications. These risks should not be taken lightly. Fortunately in cosmetic surgery, complications seldom occur and are usually amenable to treatment. I will provide you with an informed consent for your specific procedure. You should be aware of the risks and make an educated decision for surgery.

What are the costs?

The charges for the different surgical procedures vary with each operation and the complexity of the problem. Since cosmetic surgery is strictly elective, the fees are payable in advance.

Will insurance pay for any part of the surgery?

As a general rule, insurance will not pay for operations that are strictly for cosmetic purposes. Occasionally, insurance will pay for part of a cosmetic procedure if it improves function by relieving symptoms such as restricted vision, impaired breathing, back and shoulder ache due to heavy breasts, separation of the abdominal muscles resulting from multiple pregnancies, etc. If it does pay for part of the surgical procedure, insurance usually will pay the related hospital and anesthesia costs. Our office will be glad to assist you filing any insurance claims for you however, we cannot fill out claims stating the surgery was performed to improve function if it was not. We will do all we can to assist you and will send all supporting information possible, but we are not responsible for the final decision of your insurance company

What will the first office visit entail?

You will be asked to give us your medical history. We then will discuss the problem that particularly concerns you, your reasons for wanting the procedure(s) and your expectations. After a thorough examination of the problem, I will give you my opinion as to what the chances are for accomplishing what you desire and the details involved. After our discussion, you will probably require time to decide whether or not you would like the surgery. If you would like to think about our discussion or discuss it with your family before making a final decision, I encourage you to do so. However, it is important that you are the one who makes the final decision, not someone else. A second office visit may be scheduled if necessary. Preoperative photographs may be made so that your problem can be studied more thoroughly and will be used for reference during the surgery, if you decide to proceed. You should wear clothing that is easily removed to expose the area to be examined. Also, please keep makeup to a minimum if your consult concerns your face.

I hope this information is helpful. Please write down any questions you might have so that we may discuss them. I look forward to meeting you during your consultation.
Michael J. Brown, M.D.

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