Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

It’s important to understand the facts before deciding to have any surgical procedure. People choose cosmetic surgery for many different reasons, to feel more confident, enhance a feature they have always been self-conscious about, or correct something like a scar or age related change. Whatever the motivation, cosmetic surgery should be a personal choice made with careful thought and the right guidance.

There are many procedures or combinations of procedures that can be tailored to suit each person’s unique needs. Dr. Alavi approaches every case with a focus on creating results that look natural while highlighting your best features. The goal is always to make each patient feel like the procedure was designed specifically for them.

Cosmetic surgery is about improvement, not perfection. Every patient is different, with individual factors like age, skin condition, bone structure, and overall health that influence the outcome. Dr. Alavi’s goal is to deliver noticeable, natural-looking results with as little surgery and as smooth a recovery as possible.

How we feel about our appearance can influence how we feel about ourselves. For some people, cosmetic surgery is a way to improve self-esteem, boost confidence, or feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Plastic surgery isn’t about vanity, it’s about making a change that feels right for you. Just like people invest in skincare, hairstyling, or fitness, some choose surgery as a way to support their personal goals and reflect how they feel on the inside.

While surgery isn’t a solution for deeper emotional challenges, many patients do experience a positive shift in their mental outlook after a procedure. Feeling more confident in your appearance can lead to improved self-image, more ease in social settings, and even better quality of life.

In the end it’s a personal decision. When made thoughtfully and for the right reasons cosmetic surgery can be a meaningful step toward feeling more like yourself.

Choosing the right cosmetic surgeon is one of the most important steps when considering any procedure. You want someone who not only has the right credentials and experience but also understands your goals and makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Look for a surgeon with advanced, specialized backgrounds.
Dr. Alavi is board certified in Head, Neck, and Facial Surgery and has completed two fellowships: one in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at UC Irvine, and another in Body Contouring Plastic Surgery with the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.

With over 100,000 cosmetic procedures performed in the past 25 years, Dr. Alavi is known for achieving natural, personalized results.

Bottom line: Choose a cosmetic surgeon whose training, aesthetic style, and experience align with your needs and who truly listens to your vision.

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Yes! A consultation is the best way to get honest, expert advice tailored to you. Dr. Alavi offers free consultations because he stands behind his work and believes every patient deserves clear answers, a thoughtful plan, and the chance to feel confident in their decision. No pressure just personalized care.

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.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved but serious complications are rare, especially when your surgery is performed by an experienced cosmetic surgeon. Dr. Alavi takes every precaution to prioritize your safety, from pre-op planning to post-op care.

The specific risks and considerations for your procedure will be discussed in detail during your consultation, so you feel informed, confident, and fully prepared.

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.