By Otto Rodriguez
Miami-Dade Health
Facial plastic surgery can improve your appearance and it’s one of the most popular types of elective procedures nowadays.
But before you resort to plastic surgery to try to look better, there are things you should know and a lot of questions to ask before consenting to the procedure.
You should be prepared to be candid with the surgeon about your medical history, medications, allergies, habits, background, and things, in general, that could affect the outcome of the surgery.
Ask the surgeon about his or her experience performing the type of facial surgery you are considering. Some surgeons use computer imaging to show you what the surgery might accomplish. The surgeon can also describe what anesthesia is used for each of the surgeries you may be contemplating.
Ask your surgeon if you will need other supportive surgeries to enhance the outcome. It is crucial for you to ask enough questions to find out about all aspects of the proposed surgery.
One of the most important factors for successful facial plastic surgery is the relationship between the patient and surgeon. An initial consultation provides the patient and surgeon an opportunity to discuss all that is involved in the desired procedure. It’s a good idea to write questions down before the consultation.
Some initial questions are:
- What is the cost of the procedure?
- What are the risks involved?
- Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
- How long will the operation take?
- What is the recovery time?
- What medications are needed after the procedure?
Most popular types of facial surgery
Nasal surgery
Known as rhinoplasty, this is a surgery of the nose, where cartilage and bone are reshaped and reconstructed and excess bone or cartilage may be removed. Recovery time is approximately one week. With this type of procedure, the results are permanent.
Eyelid surgery
Known as blepharoplasty, this is a surgery of the eyelids where fat and excess skin, bags, pouches, wrinkles in the eye area are removed to make the eyes look less tired. Recovery time is approximately one week. Results in the lower lids are permanent, while in the upper lids they last for 10 years.
Facelift
Known as rhytidectomy, this procedure is done to remove excess skin and tighten muscles in the neck and lower part of the face. Recovery time is approximately two weeks, and the results last from five to 10 years.
Chin augmentation
Known as Genioplasty or mentoplasty, this surgery is done to augment a small chin or reduce a prominent chin. Recovery time is about one week and the results are permanent.
