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How you pick your cosmetic plastic
surgeon is very important. Your
surgeon should be board certified in Plastic Surgery. He or she should also
have approved hospital privileges to perform the procedure you desire.
Dr. Semlacher's credentials fully satisfy these requirements.
The ideal candidate for cosmetic plastic surgery is someone who has a
strong self image as well as a desire to change the thing about their
appearance that bothers them.
It is important to have realistic expectations about your surgical outcome.
While correcting something that bothers you about your appearance can
make you feel good about yourself, it will not change your life. It can,
however, have a positive impact in many areas of your life.
During your consultation with Dr. Semlacher, he will ask you about which
surgery you are considering and your expectations. Dr. Semlacher will
also discuss with you whether the results you hope for can realistically be
achieved. Be sure to discuss your expectations frankly with Dr. Semlacher;
this will allow him to determine if he can surgically deliver what you want.
You will also be evaluated for the procedure and photographs will be taken
for your medical record.
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical
history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug
allergies, medical treatments you have received, plus previous surgeries and
a list of all the medications you take. It is important that you to be candid
with our staff about your medical history, medications, allergies, habits and
background since all these things can affect the outcome of your surgery.
Dr. Semlacher feels it is very important to have a good and communicative
relationship with each patient. Your initial consultation will give you an
opportunity to discuss everything that is involved in the surgery you are
considering. The consultation also gives you a chance to meet comfortably
and talk with Dr. Semlacher. You should feel very comfortable with him,
both as a surgeon and a person. This will ensure that your cosmetic
surgery experience is a positive one.
Dr. Semlacher will freely describe your surgical alternatives and the risks
and limitations of each. He will give you further information in the form of
printed literature as well as loan you a video that will give you a good
understanding of what to expect from your surgery.
It is often a good idea to write questions down before your consultation.
You may want to ask:
- Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
- How long will my surgery take?
- What type of anesthesia is used?
- What is the recovery time?
- What are the risks involved?
- How soon can I return to work?
- Is post-op medication necessary?
You may also want to ask Dr. Semlacher if insurance will
help cover the
cost of your surgery.
Very few cosmetic plastic surgery procedures are covered by insurance.
However, there are some exceptions:
Breast lift surgery, a cosmetic procedure, is generally not
covered by
insurance.
Under certain circumstances, however, insurance coverage may be
available. For example, if a breast reconstruction after mastectomy is
performed, the opposite breast may need to be modified for symmetry.
Many factors determine your eligibility for coverage, including the specific
terms of your insurance policy. Your insurance company prior to surgery
may require a letter of predetermination. Dr. Semlacher or a member of his
staff will discuss these matters with you.
If you choose to have Dr. Semlacher perform your surgery, our staff will give
you instructions to prepare for your surgery, including guidelines on eating
and drinking, smoking and taking or avoiding certain vitamins, herbs and
medications pre-operatively.
If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of
surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased
bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time
before surgery. Dr. Semlacher will provide you with additional preoperative
instructions.
Some of the potential complications that may be discussed with you
include bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. It will be explained
that revisionary surgery may sometimes be helpful in certain instances
where incisions have healed poorly.
Please remember that the relationship with Dr. Semlacher does
not end
when you leave the operating room. If you have questions or concerns
during your recovery, or need additional information at a later time,you
are encouraged to contact Dr. Semlacher.
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