Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

It is important to know the facts before committing to any surgical procedure. There are many reasons why people desire cosmetic surgery. Some people may want to look or feel better, get rid of a scar or gain self-esteem with a new look. Whatever your reason, there are many different procedures or combinations of procedures which enable your surgeon to create the artistry and flair that is necessary to make each patient know that the procedure was designed for their own individual needs. Dr. Alavi plans for a more natural look that can be achieved while eliminating undesirable features and enhancing your best physical characteristics.

The goal of cosmetic surgery is improvement not perfection. There are inherent challenges with each patient such as health, skin texture, bone conformation, age and the condition of the feature to be improved. The ultimate goal is to achieve a natural improved appearance with a minimal amount of surgery and a short period of recovery.

Appearance is important. The ultimate reason for improving your appearance--whether through cosmetic surgery, hairstyling, body sculpting with liposuction procedures, breast enhancement or permanent makeup, is to have a more positive mental attitude. This is evidenced by the millions of dollars that are spent each year on cosmetics, hair styling, manicuring, diets, health spas and clothing. Cosmetic surgery is simply an extension of this desire to look better. It is a rewarding, satisfying experience, not vanity.

It is important to realize that having cosmetic surgery is a personal decision. It will not only change the way family and friends feel about you, but also the way you feel about yourself.

It is important to establish rapport with the surgeon since you place total confidence in that doctors ability. Select a surgeon who compares alternatives, explains clearly what will be done for you and the rationale for the approach selected. Be sure your doctor discusses any possible risks, and choose a surgeon who communicates a clear understanding of your desired results.

You should carefully evaluate the proposed surgery and the surgeon before proceeding. Insist on certain qualifications. Ask specific questions about the doctors training. Is the surgeon Board Certified? Has he fellowship training or specialized training in the procedures you want performed? A specialist does the same procedures far more often and therefore has greater experience and skill than most surgeons. Does the surgeon have aesthetic taste compatible with yours? These questions can be answered through referrals to other patients, and physicians.

Yes! You Should! At the time of your visit the extent of your surgery will be carefully discussed and an evaluation made. A consultation helps to clarify your desires and allows your surgeon to discuss the plan. There is no standard operation which applies to the same patient. Your procedure is designed during this consultation specifically for you and all of the details will be explained.

When necessary, twilight sleep or light general anesthesia is administered by a competent anesthetist or anesthesiologist. The level of anesthesia will vary with the needs of each patient. The type of anesthetic is clearly described at the time of consultation and is tailored to the patients needs for surgery. The patient will remain in the recovery area until able to be discharged. Dr. Alavi and his team will discuss the importance of having a friend or family member drive you home after the operation.

Although complications are possible, they are very rare. Most patients accept the risks after consideration. A full description of every possible complication is beyond the scope of this text, but risks specific to each procedure will be discussed in the appropriate section.

Pictures are taken prior to surgery to help plan the procedure. They are useful guides which our surgeons will use in planning and preparing for your procedure. In addition, postoperative photos are taken to enable you and your surgeon to evaluate the results of your procedure.

You will be asked to review and sign a form that clearly describes your desired operation. This informed consent is a legal document and your authorization allows your surgeon to perform the surgery.

Following your surgery you will rest in our adjoining recovery room until you are released to go home. Once you are home, Dr. Alavi will monitor your progress with daily phone calls. In addition, we have a 24-hour patient line for you to call if you have any questions. Just like every surgery is unique, so is the recovery, which Dr. Alavi will discuss personally with you.

The period of recovery depends on the surgery performed. After surgery strenuous physical activities are limited. You can resume normal activities within a few days depending upon the surgical procedure.

In some cases there will be temporary swelling, bruising and discomfort. The most common concern is an uncomfortable feeling, not pain. Pain is surprisingly minimal and easily controlled with medication. Mild analgesics are used in most cases, but stronger medication is given when necessary.

The surgeon will discuss your postoperative visits for removal of dressings and sutures. Special arrangements are made for patients who are from out of town and arrangements are usually available for patients who do not live in the area, or choose to spend a few days after surgery away from their families.

Care is taken to place the incision in the natural skin creases or skin folds along inconspicuous areas so they are not visible when the healing process is completed. The incision may be pink for several weeks postoperatively, but is easily camouflaged the day after suture removal. Complete maturation of the surgical area takes more than one year, though in most cases after one or two weeks, only the patient and physician can detect the surgical incision. Time is the single most important factor in the healing process.