Over time we have found that many of our patients have the same questions and concerns regarding their decision to have cosmetic surgery. A list of some of the most frequently asked questions appears below.
Is plastic surgery safe?
The main determinant of the safety of plastic surgery is two-fold:
1. the experience and competence of the surgeon;
2. compliance of the patient with pre- and postoperative instructions and medications. Back to top ^
How will I know what changes I need to make?
The choice to have plastic surgery is a very personal decision. Often patients are merely dissatisfied with their appearance. The plastic surgeon can make recommendations for procedures to correct features that the patient perceives as displeasing. Back to top ^
Does Dr. Apesos maintain computer imaging of pre- and postoperative results I can view prior to surgery?
No, Dr. Apesos does not believe that computer imaging truly represents how plastic surgery can improve the physical appearance. He feels that photographic computer imaging increases the probability of unrealistic expectations. However, for an overview of the quality of his work and patient education, Dr. Apesos does maintain albums of anonymous photographs. These albums are available for review with the doctor at the time of consultation. Back to top ^
What's the first step?
An office consultation with Dr. Apesos is the first step. Patients' concerns and issues about plastic surgery will be discussed at this first meeting. Feeling at ease with your doctor is important, and Dr. Apesos makes sure that adequate time is given for an initial consultation visit. Please feel free to bring up any questions about your care. Back to top ^
Does insurance cover cosmetic procedures?
Insurance does not generally cover elective cosmetic procedures. Selected reconstructive procedures might be covered by your insurance policy. Please check on your benefits and let our scheduler know. Back to top ^
How do I pay for my surgery?
Once your 10% deposit is made and you are scheduled for your surgery, payment in full is due two weeks prior to your scheduled surgery. If you need or want to schedule your surgery within two weeks, payment in full is necessary prior to surgery. Please discuss arrangments with the doctor and our surgery coordinator. Information about financing your surgery through the American Society of Plastic Surgery is available upon consultation. Credit cards are accepted. Back to top ^
How long does surgery take?
This depends on the surgery being performed. Some facelifts can take 6-7 hours; other procedures take less than one hour. Back to top ^
How much time do I need to take off work?
This depends on the surgery performed. You may be able to go back to work the next day. In other cases, several weeks recuperation is necessary. Dr. Apesos will advise when you may resume normal activities based on your postoperative progress. Back to top ^
Can arrangements be made for an overnight stay following surgery?
Patients may choose to make arrangements to stay in a private suite in a nearby facility with full-time staff and nurses for full postoperative care on a per diem basis. Back to top ^
Will I need to have someone with me on the day of surgery?
Dr. Apesos' staff will advise you. Many times it is mandatory that someone be available to drive you home after surgery. This depends upon the procedure being performed and whether or not sedation is administered to you. Your family member or friend will find our waiting room spacious and serene, and they are always welcome to wait for you here. Our staff can also let your driver know the time at which you will be ready to go home. For minor procedures without sedation, you may be able to drive and resume your daily activities. Back to top ^
Can you describe the follow-up care I will receive from Dr. Apesos?
Dr. Apesos sees all his patients within the first week following surgery. He follows up routinely as needed for each specific procedure overseeing the entire postoperative healing process. If you have emergency travel plans that cannot be put off, Dr. Apesos can recommend other board-certified physicians with whom you can consult while away from home. Back to top ^
What if I have questions or problems when I'm home after surgery?
Dr. Apesos is available to answer your questions 24/7. Patients are always given a complete set of phone and pager numbers so patients or caregivers can reach him at any time with questions or concerns. Back to top ^
What happens if there are complications or problems with surgery?
Complications and problems during surgery are very rare, and Dr. Apesos is frequently asked to manage complications from other physicians. However, in the event that there are complications arising during or after your surgery, Dr. Apesos can continue to treat you. Back to top ^
How do I get to Dayton, Ohio?
Dayton, Ohio, is easily accessible at the crossroads of two major highways, Interstate 75 and Interstate 70. Dayton has a major airport; other Ohio hub airports are located in Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus, Ohio. The Indianapolis, Indiana, airport is also frequently used by Dayton travelers. It is approximately two hours away by freeway. Back to top ^
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