Frequently Asked Questions of Cosmetic Surgeons

All surgical procedures are accompanied by a certain degree of risk, whether the procedures are for medical or cosmetic reasons. Our expert team is dedicated to making your operation go smoothly. We carefully review your medical history and current health conditions before deciding if it is safe for you to proceed with surgery. It is important that you fully disclose all pertinent information so that we are able to make an accurate assessment of the risks involved. We will take every precaution necessary to reduce the possibility of any complications. We must remember that all surgery comes with some degree of risk, which we manage for each and every case.

There several important factors that come into play when deciding whether plastic surgery is the right option for you. One of the most important factors is your health. Being in good health greatly reduces the risk of complications occurring during surgery and leads to a speedy recovery. Next, you need to ask yourself what your motivations are. People who have plastic surgery generally find that the surgery enhances their overall appearance and self-esteem. Thirdly, you should have realistic expectations. Plastic surgery is both a science and an art, neither of which are perfect. Set reasonable goals as to the result you wish to achieve and be prepared to thoroughly discuss these goals during your initial consultation. Our doctor will work with you in your quest to achieve the best results we can obtain.

Due to the variety of procedures available in plastic surgery, there can be no blanket rule on age although age will be taken into consideration when planning your operation. People of all ages have taken advantage of the image-enhancement offered by plastic surgery. There are even procedures appropriate for young children! It is important to realize the limitations of plastic surgery. Plastic surgery cannot “fix” every situation or reverse the aging process. What is a good procedure for one person may not be an appropriate procedure for another. We are committed to making your plastic surgery experience a successful one.

During your consultation we will discuss your desired changes and expectations, review your medical history and current health, and make an assessment on whether the procedure(s) in question is right for you. This is a good time to ask specific questions about the procedure so that you are fully prepared, mentally and emotionally, for surgery. We will discuss the results that can be achieved with the aid of photographs and other visual materials. When a final decision is made, you will need to sign an informed consent stating that you are fully aware and understand what is entailed by your pending operation, including the potential complications and secondary effects.

Generally, post-operative instructions call for rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. The length of recovery varies with each procedure and is different for each individual. Bruises usually disappear within a few days, and most swelling is gone in a matter of weeks. If you follow our post-operative instructions carefully, you will be able to enjoy your normal activities in no time. Your scars will fade over time but are permanent. We take care to conceal any scars so that they are barely visible, if at all. The image-enhancing effects of plastic surgery become more evident over time with certain procedures taking up to a year for your body to fully adjust and settle into its new look. When you come in for your consultation we can discuss your expected recovery and any post-operative instructions in detail. We have comprehensive written materials for your guidance, as well.

Insurance providers generally cover costs for reconstructive surgery but not for cosmetic surgery. In the current insurance environment post- Affordable Care Act, many companies challenge us by NOT covering items that are reconstructive in nature! Be advised it is even harder to assume that cosmetic procedures would be covered by commercial insurance lines.

The issue of breast implant safety has been a hot topic throughout the last few decades in the United States.
Currently both silicone and saline implants are available from the major companies in this marketplace. Dr. Barton will review with you the why’s and wherefores of breast implant safety and entertain all of your questions. He encourages his thinking patients to bring their significant others to the consult room.
This is a very broad subject and he will educate you and help you make the right decision! The educated consumer is the best customer, always!