Why is it important that I consider only a board certified plastic surgeon?
What is the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon?
What should I prepare for when considering plastic surgery? What are questions I should ask a doctor?
When are aesthetic treaments (peels, injectibles, laser treatments) considered to be the best alternative to plastic surgery?
What is the difference between the various injectibles available? Particularly Perlane, Restylane, Prevelle Silk and Juvederm?
I want to recapture my youth without looking like I’ve had surgery. What are some of the best options for anti-aging today?
How does a plastic surgeon treat sun damage and premature aging in comparison to a dermatologist?
What are the benefits of today’s laser technology?
Is liposuction a safe procedure to reduce body mass? When do you recommend it?
When is plastic surgery covered by insurance?
Botox, Restylane and other injectibles seem to be offered by doctors as well as spas nowadays. Why is it important to go to a doctor if they’re so readily available by non-medical practitioners?
When should a procedure be conducted in a surgery center vs. a doctor’s office?
Why is it important that I consider only a board certified plastic surgeon?
A plastic surgeon who is board certified indicates he/she has completed five years of extensive surgical residency training after medical school, including at least two years in plastic surgery, and have passed comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive surgery exams. Patients are advised to find a doctor that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify a surgeon in plastic surgery of the face and entire body. To verify a surgeon’s certification status visit www.abplsurg.org.
What is the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon?
A plastic surgeon is also a cosmetic surgeon. The term cosmetic surgeon, however can also be used by a general surgeon, internist or other specialized physician who has broadened their practice to include plastic surgery. Only specially trained plastic surgeons can practice under the title.
What should I prepare for when considering plastic surgery? What are questions I should ask a doctor?
As with all surgical procedures, there are risks which can be greatly reduced by sharing important information, asking important questions and selecting a physician with the proper experience and credentials. Patients should be in good health and inform the plastic surgeon of their medical history and any medications they’re taking.
Ask if he/she is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons.
Inquire about where they have hospital privileges.
Request information on potential complications of a procedure.
When are aesthetic treaments (peels, injectibles, laser treatments) considered to be the best alternative to plastic surgery?
This varies with each patient based upon their age, circumstances and desires. An individual consultation will provide clear choices specific to each patient.
What is the difference between the various injectibles available? Particularly Perlane, Restylane, Prevelle Silk and Juvederm?
Restylane, Perlane, Prevelle Silk and Juvederm are hyaluronic acid and vary in particle size. Larger particle injectibles are the best option for deeper wrinkles and folds, while smaller particles are best for lines in delicate areas of the face. Prevelle Silk is a hyaluronic acid soft tissue filler that contains the local anesthetic lidocaine for increased comfort at the injection site. Prevelle Silk adds volume and fullness to the skin to reduce the appearance wrinkles and deep folds. The result is smoother skin for a more youthful appearance.
I want to recapture my youth without looking like I’ve had surgery. What are some of the best options for anti-aging today?
Each patient’s circumstances vary based on age, heredity and sun damage as factors. Today patients can benefit from medical-grade peels, the latest Co2 laser technology, injectibles or surgery as options in the fight against aging. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to determine what the best options are for you.
How does a plastic surgeon treat sun damage and premature aging in comparison to a dermatologist?
Very similar. Typically patients that meet with a plastic surgeon to treat and repair sun damage are also exploring peels, Co2 laser treatment or plastic surgery in their pursuit of a more youthful appearance.
What are the benefits of today’s laser technology?
Less thermal damage and an easier, more rapid recovery.
Is liposuction a safe procedure to reduce body mass? When do you recommend it?
Liposuction is safe when performed by a board certified plastic surgeon in a certified facility. Liposuction is effective in removing unwanted fat deposits.
When is plastic surgery covered by insurance?
When it is a medically necessary procedure, i.e. making something which is abnormal to appear normal versus something normal to appear better.
Botox, Restylane and other injectibles seem to be offered by doctors as well as spas nowadays. Why is it important to go to a doctor if they’re so readily available by non-medical practitioners?
Specialized medical doctors have had extensive training on injectibles to ensure proper use, application and the best results. Their knowledge of these products in relation to the body’s anatomy is essential in order to achieve the desired outcome while lessening the chance of unnecessary bruising, scarring and side effects.
When should a procedure be conducted in a surgery center vs. a doctor’s office?
The answer depends on the type of procedure as well as the facility. For members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, all plastic surgery preformed under anesthesia, other than minor local anesthesia and/or minimal oral tranquilization, must be performed in a surgical facility that meets at least one of the following criteria: a) The office or facility is accredited by a national or state recognized accrediting agency, b) The office or facility is certified to participate in the Medicare program under Title XVIII, or c) The office or facility is licensed by the state in which the facility is located. To find out if a facility is accredited visit: www.aaaasf.org.
Explore your options. We invite you to contact Lee Plastic Surgery & Laser Center to schedule your personal consultation with S. Darrell Lee, M.D.
Please call, 772-878-8885 or email us at info@leeplasticsurgery.net.
