Plastic And Cosmetic Surgery: Answering Patients’ Most Common Questions

Plastic surgery is a field that has experienced tremendous growth over the past several years. With advancements in surgical techniques and a growing desire for self-improvement, many people are curious about its possibilities and intricacies. In this article, we will address some of the common questions people have about plastic surgery and provide answers to help you gain a better understanding of what it is (and what it isn’t!). Whether you are considering a cosmetic enhancement or seeking reconstructive surgery, read on to discover answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. We hope this will help you to make better and more informed decisions while on your own surgical journey.

What is plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery is a medical specialty that involves the alteration, restoration, or enhancement of a person’s physical appearance through surgical techniques. It can be performed almost anywhere on the body, and can address both cosmetic and reconstructive concerns.

What is the difference between cosmetic plastic surgery and reconstructive plastic surgery?

Cosmetic surgery focuses on improving a person’s appearance by enhancing aesthetic features, such as breasts, stomach or arms. Reconstructive surgery, on the other hand, aims to restore normal function or appearance following injury, disease, or congenital deformities, such as breast reconstruction after mastectomy or repairing facial injuries. Panacea is exclusively a cosmetic surgery practice.

What are the most common plastic surgery procedures?

Some of the most common plastic surgery procedures include breast augmentation (implants), rhinoplasty (nose job), liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), facelift, blepharoplasty (eyelid/eyelift surgery), labiaplasty and breast lifts (mastopexy). However, there are many other procedures available depending on individual needs and goals.

Dr. Abboushi & Dr. Singh’s Atlanta practice is focused almost entirely on body contouring procedures, and therefore refer patients who wish to address facial concerns to a select number of highly-respected surgeons who are also in the Atlanta area.

Is plastic surgery safe?

Plastic surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries some degree of risk. However, when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited facility, the risks are minimized. It is important to have a thorough consultation with your surgeon, discuss your medical history, and understand the potential risks and complications associated with the specific procedure you are considering.

How do I choose a plastic surgeon?

Choosing a plastic surgeon is a crucial step in the process. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in the specific procedure you are interested in. Check their qualifications, and certifications, and ask for before-and-after photos of their previous work. Additionally, consider seeking referrals from trusted sources, reading reviews, and scheduling consultations to assess their expertise and communication style.

Both Dr. Singh and Dr. Abboushi are board-certified plastic surgeons and have undergone many additional years of training in order to hold that certification. Additionally, they are the only surgical team in the area that performs every hospital-based procedure together. They do not employ nurse practitioners or physician’s assistants in the operating room.

What should I expect during the plastic surgery recovery period?

The recovery period can vary depending on the procedure performed and other individual factors. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions to promote proper healing. This may include wearing compression garments, taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain activities, and attending follow-up appointments. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidelines for a smooth recovery and optimal results, including getting proper rest and taking the required time off of work.

Are the results of plastic surgery permanent?

The longevity of plastic surgery results varies depending on the procedure and individual factors. Some procedures, such as breast augmentation or rhinoplasty, can provide long-lasting or permanent results. However, the natural aging process, lifestyle factors, and other factors can influence longevity. It’s important to have realistic expectations and maintain a healthy lifestyle to help preserve the outcomes of your surgery.

Does insurance cover plastic surgery?

Cosmetic surgery procedures performed solely for aesthetic purposes are not covered by insurance. However, reconstructive procedures that are deemed medically necessary, such as breast reconstruction after mastectomy or correction of congenital deformities, may be partially or fully covered by insurance. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand their specific coverage policies. As a cosmetic surgery practice, Panacea does not accept insurance at this time.

What are the potential risks and complications of plastic surgery?

As with any surgery, plastic surgery carries some risks. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, adverse reactions to anesthesia, asymmetry, dissatisfaction with results, and potential need for surgical revisions. It’s essential to discuss the potential risks and complications with your surgeon and make an informed decision. Dr. Abboushi and Dr. Singh are dedicated to taking all of the time needed with their patients in order for them to feel comfortable with their decision to undergo surgery.

What are some non-surgical alternatives to plastic surgery?

There are several non-surgical alternatives available for those who prefer to avoid surgery. These may include injectable treatments like Botox or dermal fillers for facial rejuvenation, laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, and non-invasive body contouring procedures. These options can provide temporary improvements and may be suitable for certain individuals depending on their goals and desired outcomes.

In order to address the aesthetic concerns of patients who do not wish to undergo surgery, Panacea offers a complete medical spa in-house, which includes many non-surgical options including CoolSculpting Elite, VI Peel, Ultherapy, microneedling, and skin resurfacing. We are also the only plastic surgery practice in the area in which our surgeons are also our injectors. Therefore, all botox and fillers are placed by Dr. Singh and Dr. Abboushi, not a nurse, NP, or PA.

How should I prepare for plastic surgery?

Your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific pre-operative instructions tailored to your procedure. Generally, you may be advised to avoid smoking and certain medications that can increase the risk of complications. It’s important to follow the guidelines provided by your surgeon, arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility, and ensure you have a support system in place for your recovery.

At Panacea, patients meet with our highly experienced medical assistant, Amber, during a dedicated pre-op appointment, where she will detail the specific instructions required for surgery. This includes care of surgical drains (if needed), compression garments, incisions, and use of medications. At this time they will also meet with either Dr. Singh or Dr. Abboushi, depending on which doctor is the lead physician on the case.

Will I experience pain during or after surgery?

During the surgical procedure, you will be under anesthesia and should not feel any pain. After surgery, it is common to experience some discomfort or soreness, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications. Your surgeon will provide instructions on pain management techniques and medications to help minimize any post-operative discomfort. Closely following your surgeon’s post-surgical instructions will greatly impact the degree of pain or soreness experienced.

Can plastic surgery fix all my insecurities?

While plastic surgery can address certain physical concerns and enhance your appearance, it is not a solution for underlying psychological or emotional issues. It is essential to have realistic expectations and understand that self-confidence and self-image are complex and influenced by a wide range of factors. It can be helpful to have open discussions with your surgeon and consider complementary approaches, such as therapy or counseling, to address insecurities holistically.

However, plastic surgery can be a transformative option for individuals who feel bothered or upset by specific physical issues that have been a source of insecurity for them over the years. Concerns such as sagging breasts or excess fat around the stomach can significantly impact one’s self-confidence. In these cases, plastic surgery offers a direct and effective solution by addressing and correcting these specific issues. By undergoing the necessary procedures, individuals can experience a significant boost in their self-esteem and regain confidence in their appearance.

How long does it take to see the final results of plastic surgery?

The timeline for seeing the final results can vary depending on the procedure performed and individual factors. Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and can take several weeks to subside. It may take several months for the tissues to heal completely and for the final results to become evident — sometimes a year or more for major or combined surgeries. Your surgeon will provide guidance on the expected timeline for recovery and when you can anticipate seeing the full benefits of the procedure.

Can I combine multiple plastic surgery procedures?

Combining multiple procedures, also known as a combination or mommy makeover, is a common practice in plastic surgery. It allows patients to address multiple concerns in a single operation and therefore consolidate the recovery period. However, the feasibility of combining procedures depends on a number of factors, such as your overall health, the extent of the surgeries, and the recommendation of your surgeon. During your consultation, discuss your goals with your surgeon, and they will determine if combining procedures is suitable for you.

Are there any age restrictions for plastic surgery?

There is no specific age limit for plastic surgery, as eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis. For cosmetic procedures, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks associated with surgery at different ages. Minors seeking plastic surgery generally require parental consent, and procedures for individuals in their senior years may involve additional considerations due to the natural aging process and overall health.

Are there any weight or BMI restrictions for plastic surgery?

For surgeries performed in a hospital setting, patients must not exceed a BMI of 50 in order to qualify for a procedure. This is due to restrictions put in place by hospital administrators. Unfortunately, many cosmetic surgeons will not operate on patients who are overweight or obese, which can unfairly and unnecessarily limit their options for care.

Dr. Singh and Dr. Abboushi believe that everybody deserves respect, and to look and feel their best and they have chosen to operate on patients with high BMIs. But, because they perform surgery in a hospital setting, they cannot do so on patients with BMIs of more than 50. However, general health is also an extremely important factor for qualifying for plastic surgery at Panacea; therefore, patients with higher BMIs must receive medical clearance from their primary care provider in order to undergo surgery.

Additionally, some surgeons operate out of private clinics, in which case BMI is set by the doctor. This may mean that patients with BMIs of more than 50 can be accepted if the doctor chooses to do so.

Can I have plastic surgery if I have a medical condition?

The suitability for plastic surgery will depend on the type and severity of your medical condition. It is crucial to disclose your complete medical history to your surgeon during the consultation. Certain conditions may require medical clearance from your primary care physician or specialists before proceeding with surgery. Dr. Singh and Dr. Abboushi work closely with their patients’ healthcare teams to determine the safest approach and mitigate any potential risks associated with their specific medical needs.

Will I have visible scars after plastic surgery?

Scarring is an inherent part of any surgical procedure, including plastic surgery. However, plastic surgeons are skilled in minimizing the appearance of scars and placing incisions in discreet locations whenever possible. They may utilize techniques like suturing methods, wound care, and post-operative scar management to help promote optimal healing and minimize visible scarring. Following your surgeon’s instructions for scar care and using appropriate scar treatments can also aid in reducing the visibility of scars over time.

With all major surgeries at Panacea, patients are given a silicone-based scar gel called Strataderm. When used as directed by Dr. Abboushi and Dr. Singh, it can greatly help reduce the appearance of post-surgical scarring.

Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to implants used in plastic surgery?

Although rare, allergic reactions to implants used in plastic surgery can occur. It is important to discuss any known allergies or sensitivities with your surgeon during the consultation. They will consider your medical history and perform appropriate testing if necessary to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Additionally, choosing implants made from materials that have a long-standing safety profile and are approved by regulatory bodies can help reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions.

At Panacea, our doctors primarily use Natrelle implants (“gummy bear” silicone implants), which are manufactured by Allergan, and have an impressive track record of quality, safety, and longevity.

Do you have more questions about plastic surgery?

If you have additional questions about plastic and cosmetic surgery and would like to speak with our patient care team, we would love to hear from you! And, if you’re ready to schedule a consultation with our doctors, we offer both in-person and virtual appointments; virtual consults are available with our compliments. We can’t wait to meet you!