1. What is facial plastic surgery and how do I choose a facial plastic surgeon?
Facial plastic surgery is a specialty that is dedicated solely to plastic and reconstructive surgery of the face, head and neck. Facial Plastic Surgeons complete a 5-year residency dedicated to all aspects of Head and Neck Surgery. Specialists, like Dr. Meier, have then gone on to complete a coveted full-year fellowship with world-renowned master facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons and sponsored by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Meier has trained exclusively in all aspects of facial plastic surgery and has specialized his practice to include only surgery of the face, head and neck. At a time where the public is increasingly aware of the qualifications in choosing a specialist surgeon, it is important for your plastic surgeon to have a unique understanding and knowledge of the face and its underlying structures. Trust your face to a facial plastic surgeon.
2. How much will the procedure(s) cost me?
An in-depth consultation with Dr. Meier is free. The cost of each procedure depends upon what is being performed. This can only be determined after the consultation between Dr. Meier and the individual patient. Dr. Meier encourages you to come and meet with him as well as his staff to determine for yourself whether his philosophy, surgical techniques, and outcomes fit you and your desired needs.
3. Will I be in pain?
Local anesthesia (such as lidocaine) is used for minor, in-office procedures. During surgery, Dr. Meier works exclusively with board-certified anesthesiologists who will ensure that you have very little or no discomfort. For most surgical procedures, you will be asleep (under sedation) for the entire time. It is Dr. Meier’s goal that every patient receives a maximum level of comfort during the procedure. After surgery, you will receive a prescription for medication to relieve any discomfort as needed by the patient.
4. What is the recovery period of the procedure(s)?
The recovery period can be as little as 1 day and may last as long as two weeks depending upon the patient and the procedure being performed. During your consultation, Dr. Meier will discuss any of your upcoming events or special occasions to ensure adequate time for the healing process.
5. How much bruising and swelling will occur?
Bruising in most cases is very mild; however the amount of bruising and swelling ultimately depends on the patient as well as the procedure performed. There may be no swelling or bruising when minimally invasive procedures such as Juvéderm, Restylane, or Botoxare used. Other procedures such as a facelift may require up to two weeks in order for resulting swelling and bruising to be absorbed by the body. Again, Dr. Meier will discuss any and all recommendations to help you ensure the least amount of bruising and swelling possible.
6. How long does the procedure take?
Most surgical procedures take only a few hours and are performed on an outpatient basis in an accredited outpatient surgery center. Most likely, you will recover under nurse’s supervision for a few hours in the center then have a relative or friend to escort you home to recover in the comforts of your own home. In-office procedures take as little as 15 minutes to 1 hour depending on the type performed.
7. Will there be scars or visible incision lines?
With any kind of surgery, incisions are a part of the surgical process. Dr. Meier will discuss all aspects of your procedure with you and whether he will conduct an internal or external incision. He will make every effort to keep scarring to a minimum with most of his scars being camouflaged and well-hidden.
8. Will people recognize I have had surgery?
Keep in mind, our goal is to always provide you with an improved, yet natural-appearing look. You should notice a remarkable difference in your appearance without the “done” or “operated” look as Dr. Meier only performs techniques that enhance your natural beauty. What past patients report is that others don’t necessarily know that they have had cosmetic surgery. Instead, they often are asked if they have lost weight, been on vacation, or started a new exercise regimen, as they look refreshed.
9. How soon may I begin to wear makeup?
You may begin to wear makeup approximately 1 hour after a Juvéderm, Restylane or Botox injection. Depending on other procedures, you may begin to wear makeup approximately 2 to 14 days afterwards. Dr. Meier will give you some general guidelines to follow depending on what procedure you have performed and when you may begin to use makeup.
10. When can I exercise?
Depending on the procedure you may begin to exercise in as little as 1 day to 3 weeks. Dr. Meier will discuss how soon you may begin any exercise regiment as well as answer any questions that you may have about the procedure.
11. How soon may I return to work?
How soon you return to work depends greatly on the procedure you had performed. Patients who have had a non-surgical, in-office procedure usually return to work the same day or the next day. Most often, patients who have had a surgical procedure return to work within 5-14 days.
12. Will insurance cover my procedure?
Since cosmetic surgery is elective, most insurance plans do not cover facial plastic surgery. However, there are some exceptions such as if it is deemed medically necessary as in the case of improving a deviated septum with rhinoplasty or skin cancer reconstruction. If this is the case, our office will be happy to contact your insurance company to determine coverage and eligibility. Dr. Meier does accept most major insurance plans.
Any further questions can be answered by Dr. Meier and his staff. Please contact our office to set up a consultation today.
