NJ Liposuction Specialist Answers Common Questions about Plastic Surgery

EDISON, NEW JERSEY - Patients who are considering plastic surgery usually have a lot of questions about this type of procedure. Some answers are simple, while others are contingent upon the chosen surgery.

An NJ liposuction specialist, has produced a list of answers to questions that his patients typically ask him.

What are some characteristics that make patients a good candidate for plastic surgery?

The answer to this question has multiple layers. Overall, patients' health needs to be reasonably good and free of any medical conditions that may hinder them from undergoing an elective surgery.

Patients should also understand that plastic surgery will change the appearance of their body, rather than turn their body into someone else's. If they go into surgery with realistic expectations, they will not be disappointed if people do not see or treat them differently immediately after surgery.

It is best if patients know what kind of surgery they would like to undergo and research it so they are aware of its advantages, as well as its dangers. The initial consultation is the perfect time for patients to be honest with their surgeon, ask questions and make an informed decision about their candidacy for surgery.
At what age should plastic surgery be conducted?

Some surgeries, such as a facelift, are only appropriate for those who are approaching or experiencing middle age. At the same time, this does not mean that younger people are not getting plastic surgery as well.

Younger patients tend to choose surgeries that aim to change the body's appearance, such as breast augmentation and rhinoplasty. Patients who are over the age of 18 are candidates for plastic surgery, but it is important that younger patients determine their motivation behind their desire for the surgery. The last thing doctors want is for someone to undergo surgery for the wrong reasons.
Who administers the anesthesia and what type of anesthesia is used?

Anesthesiologists are responsible for administering anesthesia to patients. They are careful to monitor patients' vitals before and after surgery to ensure that any adverse side effects are treated. There are many factors, such as weight and percentage of body fat, that play into how long the effects of anesthesia last for patients.

The type of surgery patients have determines the type of anesthesia that will be used. A local anesthetic and sedative are typically used for less invasive surgeries since the combination blocks nerve impulses at the site of the surgery and produces a calming effect.

Under general anesthesia, patients are unaware of pain and unconscious. More extensive surgeries, such as a tummy tuck, require general anesthesia.

Patients may feel cold, nauseated or emotional when they wake up from surgery and as they recover. They are normal sensations and should subside as the anesthesia wears off.
Is plastic surgery covered by insurance?

Cosmetic surgeries are typically not covered by medical insurance policies. However, some policies cover reconstructive surgeries performed to repair damage sustained during an injury or correct a birth defect that interferes with normal function.

For example, patients' policies may cover a nose surgery that addresses nasal breathing difficulties, not its appearance. It is best that patients speak with their health care providers before undergoing surgery so they are aware of the medical expenses they will have to pay.
Does plastic surgery cause any pain?

Since pain is a subjective feeling, it depends on patients' pain tolerance levels and the type of procedure they chose. Surgeries, such as breast augmentations, that require muscle manipulation are more painful than those that operate on the skin and soft tissue, like a cheek lift. Most pain can be easily managed with painkillers, which are prescribed by the surgeon.

To accelerate healing time, plastic surgeons also prescribe their patients antibiotics prior to surgery. Regardless of the type of surgery they choose, patients should limit how much they move after surgery, as well as follow their doctor's post-op instructions.
Is there a possibility of scaring post-surgery?

When skin is being cut, scarring is inevitable. Plastic surgeons try their best to make scars virtually invisible by limiting the amount of incisions they make and leaving a thin scar that is placed in the correct orientation.

Another technique plastic surgeons use is to make incisions in areas that will hide scars, like below the line of undergarments and along natural folds. Most scars fade over time, but those that are from incisions on the back and chest may not fade as well due to the thickness of the skin in those areas.
What is the recovery time?

It depends on the type of surgery. Most require one to two weeks, but the recovery time for more intense surgeries, like tummy tucks, can take two to three weeks.
Is plastic surgery an outpatient or inpatient procedure?

Surgeries that are conducted in a certified surgery facility are typically performed as outpatient procedures. Patients are released post-surgery to go home to recover, but they can opt to go to an aftercare facility if they so wish.
What procedures are plastic surgeons most commonly asked to perform?

Facial plastic surgeries, rhinoplasty and breast augmentations are most often performed. Noninvasive surgeries, such as laser treatments, are common, as well.
Are there any products or activities that should be limited prior to surgery?

Patients can maximize the benefits of their surgery by avoiding products like aspirin and quitting smoking. It is important that they also ensure they are at their best health prior to surgery because rashes, colds and fevers can cause surgical complications.