FAQs

A good candidate for plastic surgery is someone in good overall health with realistic expectations about the results. Whether you’re looking to address signs of aging, improve facial contours, or enhance specific features, you must understand what the procedure can and cannot achieve. During your consultation, Dr. Burchhardt will evaluate your health, goals, and concerns to determine if plastic surgery is right for you.

Preparation for plastic surgery includes several key steps. Dr. Burchhardt recommends having a consultation with at least two different surgeons before making your decision, so that you feel comfortable and confident that your surgeon is the right fit for you and for your goals. Once you have decided to proceed with surgery with Dr. Burchhardt and a surgery date is set, our patient care coordinator will help provide a road map leading up to surgery to help ensure that any necessary medical clearance is obtained and that your health is optimized prior to surgery. During your pre-operative visit, you will meet with Dr. Burchhardt to discuss detailed pre- and post-surgical instructions. At this appointment, you will also receive your swag bag with important supplements and products to help you with your recovery.

To help ensure a successful surgical outcome, you may need to stop certain medications, avoid supplements and over the counter products, and arrange for someone to help you during recovery. Our office will recommend services that provide post-operative care, whether it is a ride to and from the surgery center and post-op appointments or someone to help you at home. Lastly, it is important to practice healthy habits in the months leading up to surgery.

During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals, ask questions and address any concerns about surgery, recovery, and your candidacy for the procedure(s). Dr. Burchhardt will conduct a physical exam of your face and neck and may take photographs to aid in planning your procedure. This is also your chance to learn about the available techniques and to become familiar with the benefits and risks of surgery. Together with your input, Dr. Burchhardt will outline a personalized treatment plan and guide you through the process.

All surgeries carry some level of risk, and plastic surgery is no exception. The main risks include infection, bleeding and or hematoma, scarring, poor or delayed healing, nerve injury and the risks of anesthesia. There’s also the possibility of asymmetry or dissatisfaction with results. Having a candid discussion with your surgeon about the risks as well as your hopes and expectations for a particular aesthetic outcome is important to ensure a successful surgery. Reviewing before and after photos performed by your surgeon can help guide the discussion on what can be achieved with the procedure(s). During your consultation as well as your pre-op appointment, Dr. Burchhardt will review the procedure and the associated risks in detail with you so that you can make informed decisions. Following all pre and post op instructions and keeping the recommended follow up appointments will help ensure that risks are mitigated.

The recovery process varies depending on the procedure performed. In general, you can expect some discomfort in the days following surgery, as well as swelling and bruising. Dr. Burchhardt will provide specific aftercare instructions and prescribe medication to manage pain if necessary. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress, and you’ll gradually resume normal activities as you heal. Recovery times differ by procedure, but most patients see immediate changes after the procedure with more final results setting in within a few months, although healing ultimately takes up to year. For most facial plastic procedures. Dr. Burchhardt recommends to hold off on any strenuous exercise for 6 weeks and to allow for at least 2-3 months before an important event where you’ll want to look your best.

The cost of plastic surgery depends on several factors, including the type of procedure, the complexity of the surgery, the materials or implants used, and the expertise of the surgeon. Additional costs may include anesthesia, facility fees, and post-operative care. Dr. Burchhardt believes in transparent pricing and you will receive a detailed breakdown of costs during your consultation, ensuring there are no surprises.

Recovery time depends on the specific procedure and your individual healing process. Most facial plastic surgeries such as eyelid surgery, facelifts or rhinoplasty, can take up to a couple of weeks for the majority of swelling and bruising to subside. Dr. Burchhardt will provide a realistic timeline based on your treatment plan.

To ensure a smooth recovery, closely follow the post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Burchhardt. This includes keeping the surgical area clean, attending all follow-up appointments, avoiding strenuous activities, and maintaining a healthy diet to support healing. You must also communicate any concerns or unexpected changes during recovery with Dr. Burchhardt.

When deciding on plastic surgery, consider your goals, overall health, and readiness for the commitment required during recovery. It’s essential to choose a board-certified and experienced surgeon like Dr. Burchhardt, who is known for her ability to deliver natural-looking results and who specializes in the type of plastic surgery that you’re seeking. Be sure to research the procedure and understand the potential outcomes.

There isn’t a specific “right” age for plastic surgery—it’s more about your personal needs and when you start noticing signs of aging or other concerns. What is most important is being in good health and mentally prepared for the process. While some may benefit from earlier interventions to maintain youthful features, waiting too long can increase the risk of developing health problems that may prohibit you from having surgery. Dr. Burchhardt will help you decide on the best timing based on your situation and goals. If you are not a surgical candidate, Dr. Burchhardt will help counsel you on alternative treatment methods that may be available to you.