Reconstructive and plastic surgery can seem daunting at the beginning. Here at Sadeghi Plastic Surgery in New Orleans, Louisiana, we are dedicated to making the process as pleasant, rewarding, and easy as possible.
It’s natural to have questions regarding your specific procedure or plastic surgery in general. While you can find answers to many of your questions about specific procedures on this website — and will learn during your consultation with Dr. Ali Sadeghi — we have put together a list of the most common questions regarding cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
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Q: What is the difference between reconstructive plastic surgery and cosmetic plastic surgery?
Reconstructive plastic surgery is performed to correct body and facial issues caused by birth defects, injury, or disease. Usually, the goal of reconstructive plastic surgery is to improve body function. However, reconstructive plastic surgery may also be done to create a more normal appearance and improve self-esteem.
Cosmetic surgery addresses aesthetics intended to improve self-confidence and appearance. These techniques may be performed to counteract the natural aging process, recontour the body and breasts, or reshape facial structures.
At Sadeghi Plastic Surgery, Dr. Sadeghi offers body contouring procedures, breast enhancement procedures, facial enhancement procedures, and reconstructive breast procedures.
Q: Am I a good candidate for plastic surgery?
Individuals in good general health are generally acceptable candidates for cosmetic surgery. Prospective patients must have realistic expectations for their results.
During your consultation with Dr. Sadeghi, we urge you to openly discuss your previous medical history, plastic surgery goals, and any concerns you have. This will allow Dr. Sadeghi to make an informed and realistic assessment of your candidacy for cosmetic surgery.
Q: What should I look for in a plastic surgeon?
Firstly, credentials are very important. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon who has completed an accredited residency training program in plastic surgery. Most plastic surgeons will openly state the number of board certifications they have. This kind of program includes two or three years of intensive training in the full range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is a good indicator of a surgeon’s skill as the board has strict requirements.
Secondly, reviews and direct patient feedback are also crucial to review. Dr. Sadeghi has a 5.0 Google Rating because his patients value his expertise and professionalism.
Dr. Sadeghi is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Q: What does it mean for a surgeon to be board certified?
Earning board certification is one of many ways a surgeon can prove their skills and knowledge. Every certifying board has its own requirements to measure a physician’s education and experience in their chosen fields. Board certification assures that a doctor has undergone formal training in the fundamentals of surgery.
Dr. Sadeghi holds double board certifications as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Q: What is the recovery from plastic surgery like?
Because each patient has a different tolerance for pain after any procedure, Dr. Sadeghi will tailor your recovery plan according to your specific needs.
Depending on your procedure(s), discomfort following surgery will range from mild to more intense, but Dr. Sadeghi will prescribe the appropriate pain medication to minimize discomfort.
For breast reconstruction or augmentation, many patients have described the pain level as moderate but tolerable.
Most patients are asked to take one to two weeks off work and their daily obligations following their plastic surgery; however, this may vary (longer or shorter) depending on the surgical plan and the areas addressed.
Q: What are the possible risks after plastic surgery?
With any surgical procedure, there are associated risks. Dr. Sadeghi and his team firmly believe in discussing your procedure with you and answering any questions you might have.
We encourage you to ask us about the risks, how often they occur, and how they are handled. We believe in transparency and making you feel comfortable about any procedure you elect, so be sure to consult with us about your specific procedure.
Q: Will my physical condition be evaluated before surgery?
Yes. As part of our evaluation and consultation process, your overall fitness level and health will be evaluated as part of our pre-surgical testing.
Q: How much does plastic surgery cost?
We understand that cost is always one of the foremost concerns of patients before any procedure. During your consultation, you will receive a thorough, detailed summary of all costs associated with your specific procedure.
We will be happy to discuss this summary with you and advise you about all of your options.
Q: Will I be able to return to work right away?
Your ability to return to work will depend on the type of job you have and how physically demanding it is. In general, you should avoid strenuous movements, like reaching for, pulling, or pushing objects, for the first one to two weeks following surgery. We also encourage patients to avoid lifting anything heavier than five pounds for up to six weeks after the operation.
Because of these restrictions, some patients may not return to work (or full duties at work) for a while after the procedure. Others may be able to return to work relatively quickly.
Q: When will I be able to drive after surgery?
Typically, patients can drive within one to two weeks after surgery, as long as they are not actively taking pain medication. For those who require pain medication for longer than this period, we must insist that you not operate a vehicle until you have completed your recovery.
Q: Will I need additional surgeries?
Some patients require additional procedures for augmentation, optimal symmetry, and other corrective work. Also, if you face any complications after your procedure, your surgeon may need to perform additional surgeries to address or correct any issues.
During your consultation, our team will discuss the possibility of additional procedures, when they might be required, and how they will be handled.