How do I choose a plastic surgeon?
Steps to help you make the right decision are outlined by the Aesthetic Society and by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Briefly, you want someone who is qualified, that you feel comfortable with. Be cautious of those who simply say they are “Board Certified.” There are 24 Boards, and the doctor's certification may not be in Plastic Surgery.
Checking hospital privileges (by calling the medical staff office and asking if the surgeon has privileges to perform your surgery at their facility) lets you know that the hospital review committee has reviewed the surgeon’s training and competency to perform your surgery, even if the procedure is not going to be performed at the hospital. This is important because a surgeon may do anything he wants to in his own office without the hospital's scrutiny.
Interviewing two or three surgeons lets you know who will best suit you. You want to have good rapport with your surgeon. You have a right to ask about the specific credentials, experience, and training of your physician.
Do you use Board Certified anesthesiologists?
Our surgical facility only uses board certified anesthesiologists.
What can I expect at my consultation?
Our physicians allocate as much time as necessary to ensure that you know enough to make an educated decision. They review benefits and risks. After your consultation appointment you will meet with our patient coordinator and review your cost for the desired procedure. If you are ready to move forward, you may place your deposit and reserve your date.
What are the costs involved with aesthetic surgery?
Your cost analysis will include surgeon, anesthesiologist, and O.R fees, assistant and breast implants (if applicable). It does not include prescriptions, pre-operative lab work, pathology and insurance co-pays or deductibles (when applicable). There is a $150 consultation fee to meet with our surgeons.
Is it possible to have more than one procedure at a time?
Many of our patients desire more than one cosmetic procedure. Depending on what needs to be done, more than one procedure may be safely perform at the same time. Your physician will discuss the risks and benefits, keeping your safety in mind as our primary concern.
Will I see the physicians before and after my surgery?
Yes. Our physicians feel strongly about seeing their patients personally before surgery and in the post-operative care period.
Will insurance pay for aesthetic surgery?
Most aesthetic surgery procedures are not covered by insurance with a few exceptions. In some cases patients may have a aesthetic procedure performed in conjunction with an insurance procedure. For example, women who are candidates for a panniculectomy may also be able to have an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) performed at the same time. Additional fees and a longer recovery period will be incurred.
How long is the recovery after aesthetic surgery?
The recovery after most aesthetic surgical procedures varies from about 2-8 weeks. Patient health, patient age, and multiple procedures also greatly affect the range of recovery. It is best to discuss the specific estimate of recovery with your physician at your initial consultation appointment.
Is there a consultation fee to meet with the physician?
Yes, there is a consultation fee of $150. This fee is applied to your surgical fee should you proceed with your cosmetic surgery.
How long have the physicians in practice?
Dr. Askren has been in practice since 1996 and is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Zuniga has been in practice since 1998 and is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Does the practice offer financing?
Yes, the practice offers financing through Carecredit. If you would like more information please see our patient coordinator.
How long after my consultation can the aesthetic surgery be booked?
Your plastic surgery procedure can generally be booked 3-4 weeks after your consultation, although in some circumstances and for shorter procedures like breast augmentation, the surgery can be done sooner.
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