How important are the non-surgical procedures in aesthetic treatments?

In order to achieve the best results, a multi-disciplinary approach is preferred. For this reason in many cases it’s recommended to combine non-surgical procedures before or after surgery. This helps prolong the results and in often helps achieve the same results with less invasive surgery.

In general, we are referring to fillers (hyaluronicacid, fat transfer, and hydroxyapatite), Botox and different types of peeling techniques (chemical, abrasion, and laser)

Should I be afraid of anaesthesia?

Anaesthesia is a fundamental part of any surgery and should be selected based on the extent and location of the procedure. The best way to reduce risks is to ensure that the procedure is performed in an accredited hospital where properly trained staff can administerthe anaesthesia. We also must consider than when selecting the anaesthesia, we must ensure that the right degree of pain control. Again relying on an experience anaesthesiologist ensures all these points are covered.

How accessible is Plastic Surgery?

The popularity and demand of these services have made it possible for these types of procedures to be widely available to everyone. In addition, with more information being made available via the internet etc. many of themyths have been dispelled as people are able to do their own research in any one procedure. In addition, with the technical improvements in the field in the last decade, the procedures are less invasive and patients can heal quicker.

Is it common to have multiple procedures performed at once?

When a patient is seeking multiple procedures in different areas, these can be combined at once or within a few days of each other. In some cases, the costs associated might be less due to being able to share resources for the procedures. And in all cases, the recovery period is combined which helps in speed up recovery time. However if it is deemed unsafe to perform certain procedures at the same time, a few days of recovery in between surgeries is often a viable solution

Keep in mind that this is always after a clean bill of health has been assessed in the pre-operatory consultation etc.

How many procedures can be combined in a single surgery?

This depends on the magnitude of each procedure. For example, 3 small procedures can be combined (rhinoplasty, with a breast augmentation and eye lift) or two larger procedures (a tummy tuck or breast implant). However this varies greatly from patient to patient and will be assessed by the surgeon.

How many surgeries can I have in one trip?

Generally, no more than two surgeries are performed on a patient and only if the patient’s health is stable and multiple surgeries don’t pose an added health risk.

What is the difference between liposculpture and liposuction?

Both procedures are essentially liposuction. Liposculpture is a term often used when the extractions are more localized. The equipment used for both is the same.

The biggest advance in liposuction was the invention on “Tumescent” liposuction which uses epinephrine as it floods the area with fluid to allow for the fat collection. This procedure greatly decreases bruising and also reduces recovery time.

Will I feel the implants inside my body?

At first there will be tightness in the area where the implant is located but over time as the tissues in the surrounding area expand and get used to the extra volume, the tightness will diminish and the implants will feel like a natural part of the body.

How often are implants replaced?

Some implants come with a lifetime warranty, but this still doesn’t mean that after several years the patient will not have to change the implant to improve the consistency or shape. Since the body continues to change as it ages, this is not an unusual practice. Also it is important to continue with proper preventative testing regardless.

What is capsular contracture?

All implants produce a fibrous tissue that encloses it. This is known as the capsule. This is a smooth covering that separates foreign objects from the rest of the tissues. In some cases, patients may produce a larger amount of fibers and then the capsule itself is thicker and harder. This condition is known as capsular contracture. This in turn may cause a change in the feel, shape of the implant and may also cause discomfort and pain in the most severe of cases. While this is a fairly uncommon issue there are medical and surgical treatments for it.

Why do some women require a breast lift and a breast augmentation?

Not all patients are the same. When women have undergone pregnancies or significant weight loss, it’s often enough to be able to lift the breast by simply inserting an implant. However if this is not sufficient and the nipple still falls below the breast fold, it is very common to also perform a breast lift at the same time as the augmentation. Again this varies from patient to patient.

Can breast implants impede in any way with my regular mammograms?

In all cases for breast implants and regardless of how they are placed, the implant is separated from the mammary gland so therefore it does not interfere in any way with routine mammograms.

Can I combine dental procedures with plastic surgery?

As long as the plastic surgery is not in the face or the neck, dental procedures are often combined with plastic surgery. The important part is to ensure that both medical teams coordinate the procedures to maximize benefit to the patient.

What should I expect as far as quality and availability of medication abroad?

Nowadays, medications are widely distributed and available. This should not be a concern since all the countries selected in our system clearly meet this criteria.

Can I use my health insurance abroad?

This is something that must be discussed with your insurance provider well in advance when looking to have any kind of procedure abroad.

When and where should the medical exams prior to surgery be?

As much information regarding your overall health must be shared with the surgeon prior to the procedure. While you may choose to undergo your pre-op exams prior to travelling, many people chose to travel a couple of days early to have the exams done by the surgeon conducting the procedure. In any case, the goal is to ensure that the patient is healthy to endure the surgery.

How can I choose a Plastic Surgeon or a Dental Surgeon?

A Board Certified surgeon ensures that you are under the care of a physician that has the right requirements and education from reputable universities. You as a patient must inform yourself on the experience and techniques used by the surgeon prior to making a decision. We deal only with fully accredited and Board Certified surgeons.

What is recovery like?

Generally the procedures are not very painful however if it involves tightening of tissues (like in a breast augmentation or a tummy tuck) the discomfort will be greater while the tissues expand. Pain medication will be administered to help with the discomfort. Also keep in mind that in many cases, while the tissues heal, there will be some numbness in certain areas so this definitely aids in pain management. Any numbness will also disappear as the tissues heal.