|
Frequently Asked Questions - General
Do I need a referral to see Dr Cooper?
No. A referral is not necessary for a cosmetic procedure.Is Dr Cooper a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons?
Yes, Dr Cooper has been a member of The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons since 1997 and is also a member of ASAPS, ISAPS and ASPRS.What is the difference between a Plastic Surgeon and a Cosmetic Surgeon?
The difference is the extensive amount of specialist surgical training a plastic surgeon undergoes. Any doctor can perform cosmetic surgery; however a Plastic Surgeon has completed an additional 5 to 7 years of surgical training to become qualified as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.Who will I see when I visit the practice?
At your first visit you will be required to fill in a registration form, the details of which will be securely filed.You will then see Dr Cooper who will discuss the concerns you have about your appearance and the results you would like to achieve. He will explain the various options available to you, describe the outcomes he expects and advise you of any possible complications or side effects.
During your consultation Dr Cooper will take a full medical history and conduct a physical examination. He may also take photographs. Our registered nurse will be present during your physical examination if you choose.
When will learn what my surgery will cost?
At the time of your initial consultation one of our team members will give an estimate of the cost of your chosen procedure.The cost of your procedure will be a combination of your surgical fees, anaesthetists’ fee, hospital fee, and the cost of any implants.When will payment need to be finalised?
Dr Cooper requires a $500.00 non refundable deposit within one week of booking your surgery. The remaining amount is to be paid in full, two weeks prior to surgery. The anaesthetist requires payment five working days prior to surgery. The hospital requires full payment on the day of admission, prior to surgery being performed.What If I have to cancel my surgery?
If you need to cancel your surgery it is essential you do so in writing. The practice incurs cost from the time of your surgery booking and the closer to your procedure you cancel, the more difficult it is to offer this reserved space to another person.You will forfeit the non-refundable deposit of $500.00.What should I do to prepare for my surgery?
If you are taking aspirin, plavix or warfarin, discuss this with your surgeon. In general, we suggest avoiding use of aspirin for at least a week before your procedure. This is because aspirin thins the blood and can lead to excessive bleeding and bruising.It is also advisable to try and avoid using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications in the week before your surgery. Avoid drinking alcohol, in the week preceding surgery.
You will be required to fast for at least 8 hours prior to surgery. We will notify you of your fasting time in writing.Arrange for someone to accompany you home after surgery, and in addition we advise you have someone stay with you the first night after surgery.
Be sure to write down any allergies you have to medication or dressings and bring your list to hospital on the day of surgery. It is also helpful to make a list of any questions you would like to have answered prior to surgery.If you have been instructed to wear a surgical garment, you will need to bring this to hospital on the day of surgery.
What if I’m a smoker? Is it safe to continue smoking before and after surgery?
No. Smoking is contraindicated in surgery as there is a much higher likelihood of problems occurring. You should not smoke for at least 2 weeks prior to and 2 weeks following your planned surgery.Should I continue to take my prescribed medications?
In most cases it is important to continue taking your medications, up to and including the day of your surgery. There are a few exceptions to this rule, this is why it is important to inform us of all the medication you are taking.What should I do if I develop a skin infection before my surgery?
If you notice a significant skin infection, please notify us at once. Skin infections can be problematic and your surgery may need to be delayed.What should I do about makeup and jewellery on the day of my operation?
Please avoid the use of all makeup and ensure all nail polish is removed on the morning of your surgery. We also suggest you leave any jewelery or other valuables at home or wit a relative.How soon after my surgery will I be allowed to get up?
That depends on the kind of surgery and anaesthetic you’ve had. Your surgeon and nurses will let you know what to expect. Normally, you will be encouraged to be up and about as soon as possible after your operation.Do I need to take medication after my surgery?
Painkillers or antibiotics may be prescribed after your surgery. Please check to ensure nothing you are allergic to has been prescribed. Even if your pain is not severe, using your pain relief medication will make your overall experience considerably more comfortable.What should I do if I have a problem outside of normal office hours?
You will be given the hospital phone number if you have an after hours emergency. During business hours, you can contact the clinic and speak to the practice nurse.Will I need to wear compression stockings after my surgery?
Some operations will require that you wear compression stockings after surgery as you may have an increased risk of blood clot formation (deep vein thrombosis). If you have a family history of deep vein thrombosis, it is important that you tell your surgeon.You may also be required to wear compression stockings if you have a long journey home. Please discuss this with your surgeon or nurse.Will I need to wear a surgical garment?
Following some surgical procedures, tight fitting surgical garments are used to help reduce bruising and control excessive swelling. Your surgeon will advise you if you will be required to wear a garment following your surgery.When can I get back to normal activities?
This really depends on what kind of surgery you’ve had. Our practice nurse will discuss this with you in detail at your pre operative appointment. As a general rule, you’ll be advised to avoid exercise for the first two weeks after surgery. You will be able to gradually resume activity, and by six weeks following your surgery you should be back to your normal level of exercise.This does not mean that your operation site is completely settled or the final result is achieved. It simply means that normal exercise is not likely to cause any problems.Am I allowed to recuperate away from home?
You need to consider the level of medical care available in the place you are considering your recovery. Any type of surgery involves a risk of problems such as bleeding and infection, not only in the first few days but also in the first few weeks.Your surgeon or nurse will always try to guide you by telephone or email regarding any problem, however it will be the local practitioners who will need to provide the actual care. It is important they have knowledge of such problems and adequate resources to assist you.
Is it safe to fly after my surgery?
There is an increased risk of developing blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) in the weeks following surgery. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can be a potentially life threatening condition if a part of the clot (an embolism) breaks off and blocks the arteries to the lungs.Because of this increased risk we advise the avoidance of prolonged flying in the first month following surgery. If you do resume flying we suggest the use of compression stockings, in-flight exercises and drinking plenty of water. After 2 weeks following your surgery, you may also use aspirin, as directed, before a flight to reduce the risk of blood clots.