Patient and Doctor Relationship

My relationship with each patient is very important to me. It is crucial that you have a clear understanding and realistic expectations of the facial aesthetic and reconstructive procedures I offer. The sharing of this knowledge enables us to achieve the main goal: A satisfied patient who received unsurpassed care.

The One-Step Theory

The goal of facial cosmetic surgery is improvement, and not perfection. There is a theory in cosmetic surgery called the One-Step Theory. Surgery can usually result in a one or two-step improvement on the scale if healing proceeds normally. It is unrealistic for the patient to think that every result will be perfect.

Realistic Expectations

Anytime surgery is performed on the face there will be swelling. Swelling is a result of the healing process and ultimately goes away. A simple fact to remember is that 80% of swelling disappears after two weeks and another 10% after two months for most facial procedures. Usually after one to two weeks, the majority of swelling and bruising has diminished allowing you to be presentable in public. As in life, there are no guarantees in facial aesthetic surgery. Any surgeon who guarantees results should be viewed with skepticism. The only guarantee I give is that you will receive my very best effort. The results not only depend on the skill, training and experience of the surgeon, but also on your age, health, condition of your skin, bone structure, and the extent of the specific problem. Given these variables, it may, at times, be necessary to perform a revision or “touch up” procedure.

Any time an incision is made through all layers of the skin, nature will join the two edges by forming a scar. A scar can be thought of as nature’s glue. Because of the increased blood circulation and characteristics of the facial skin, these scars usually heal very well; however, they will go through a maturation process. Initially the scar may be raised and red during the healing phase it may appear lumpy. Medication can be placed into the scar to improve this condition. In time, the scar will usually heal to a thin white line that may take up to one year to completely heal.

Results

Facial aesthetic treatments are not a cure-all for life’s problems, but it can and does make you feel better about yourself. With this renewed confidence and improved self-esteem, it may contribute to greater success and result in a better outlook on life.

The risk of facial aesthetic surgery is usually minimal. The potential complications tend to be minor and easily treatable. Risks include infection, unfavorable scarring, and reactions to antibiotics or medications, including anesthesia.

Finally, there is the responsibility that surgical patients must have to themselves. They must be responsible and carefully follow preoperative and postoperative instructions, maintain good health habits, and limit activity. For example, smoking not only adversely affects the aging of skin, but also interferes with healing of scars and can lead to increased bleeding, infection and the chance of skin loss. If this applies to you, it will be important to avoid smoking entirely two weeks before and two weeks after your surgery.