FAQ

Aesthetic plastic surgery is performed on a normal body part in order to enhance or change its appearance. Many people find that plastic surgery can improve their self-esteem and give them a more positive body image.

Reconstructive surgery is performed on a body part that is abnormal because of birth defects, trauma, developmental difficulties, infection, cancer, or other disease. It is often performed to restore or improve function to the affected body part but may also be done for physical appearance reasons as well.

Look for the following criteria:

• The surgeon should be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification means they have graduated from an accredited medical school, have the required training in the specialty or sub-specialty from an accredited residency program, and have passed a rigorous set of comprehensive exams.
• The surgeon should have experience performing the type of procedure that you are seeking and meet continuing medical education requirements.
• The surgeon should operate in a medical facility that is in good standing with all accrediting agencies.
• The surgeon should willingly share examples of his previous work.

The ideal aesthetic plastic surgery candidate is someone who is physically and emotionally healthy, and wants to improve their self-image by making a change to a physical trait. It’s also important to have realistic expectations of the surgery’s results: it may help with your self-confidence but it won’t help you get a new job, find happiness in a relationship, etc.

The cost of an aesthetic procedure can vary greatly depending upon several factors, including the type of procedure you are having, the associated costs (i.e. same day surgery vs. an overnight hospital stay), and physician fees.

When the surgery is being performed to improve physical appearance only, it is usually not a covered service by most insurance plans. If the surgery is more reconstructive in nature, however, and is necessary to improve the function of a body part, it may be covered. Since insurance coverage varies, you will need to check with your own plan for specifics.

The risks depend on what type of procedure you are having, the type of anesthesia being used, and other factors. There are always risks involved with any kind of surgery. Your surgeon will explain all of the potential risks and complications with you prior to surgery.

The decision is based on a number of factors, including the patient's desires, reasons for the surgery and overall health.

For example, are you doing it because you feel your breasts are too small relative to your body contour or are you unhappy with the size and firmness of your breasts following pregnancy, breastfeeding or major weight loss? Unevenness between the breasts can also be a motivating factor. Dr Ng can help you make the right decision during your pre-surgical appointment(s).

A few patients notice small change in their voice after rhinoplasty but this is uncommon. Professionals who rely on their voice, such as singers, should share any concerns with their surgeon, however, because the nose does play a role in how we sound.

The available options can only be discussed after having an evaluation with a plastic surgeon. In general, recovery time from a mini face lift is approximately two weeks.

A complete pretesting series of appointments is done prior to any surgery.

There are risks associated with any surgical procedures. Find out what they are, how often they occur and how they will be handled if they do occur. If the doctor does not openly discuss the risks or admit that there are always risks, seek another opinion.