Tips & Advice
Are plastic surgeons affiliated with hospitals?
Plastic surgeons can be affiliated with hospitals, but it is not a rule. There are hospitals that have comprehensive plastic surgery wings that some surgeons are affiliated with, but affiliation tends to align more with private plastic surgery clinics than with hospitals.
What does an initial consultation with a plastic surgeon include?
There are variables on an initial consultation, but expect the doctor to review your medical history and discuss the procedure, , its pros and cons of the procedure, surgical and non-surgical options, risks, cost, insurance coverage, and recovery time. Some provide computer imaging of what you will look like pre and post-surgery.
Do plastic surgeons provide free consultation?
Many doctors provide free consultations for clients, but it is not required.
Are plastic surgeons required to be board certified?
A plastic surgeon does not have to be board certified. Board certification sets the minimum competency requirements to treat and diagnose patients.
What type of special training do plastic surgeons receive?
To become a plastic surgeon, one must earn a medical degree, gain a medical license and enroll in a residency and fellowship programs. A plastic surgeon is highly skilled and trained in surgical procedures, but their training has an emphasis on tissue transfer, body contouring and laser surgery, skills associated with plastic surgery.
How much does plastic surgery cost?
The cost of plastic surgery varies based on city, your doctor’s credentials, doctor’s schedule, the facilities, and the type of procedure. To get an accurate estimate for any procedure, have the discussion with your doctor or surgeon.
How long does it take to recover from a plastic surgery procedure?
The recovery time from plastic surgery varies. Minimally invasive procedures can have recovery times as short as 24 hours, while more complicated and invasive procedures, such as a face lift or breast augmentation, can take up to six months to heal. The depth of the procedure, as well as a person’s health and age, are factors that influence recovery times. Recovery time and risk is an important discussion to have with your physician prior to any procedure.
What are the most common types of plastic surgery?
While there are dozens of types of plastic surgery procedures, the most common is breast augmentation or breast enhancement. This is followed by liposuction, the removal of body fat; rhinoplasty or nose reshaping; eyelid surgery to raise droopy eyelids; and facelifts are the most common. Less invasive procedures include botox, soft tissue fillers, chemical peels, laser hair removal, and microdermabrasion.
Why is it called ‘plastic’ surgery?
Contrary to popular opinion, the term plastic surgery did not derive from the use of plastics and synthetics used in the procedures. It derived from the word plastic itself, which comes from the Greek word plastikos, meaning to mold. Early surgeons who moved and manipulated tissues became known as plastikos surgeons, which evolved into the literal English translation, plastic surgeons.
Plastic surgery is a specialty surgery used in reconstruction of facial and body parts considered abnormal, defective or unsatisfactory. Scars and birthmarks are common abnormalities targeted during typical plastic surgery. Cosmetic surgery is a popular plastic surgery. It does not usually address a medical need, but rather areas the recipient wants enhanced, such as eyes, lips and breasts. Men are a growing market for cosmetic plastic surgery, long considered a predominantly female practice.