Patient Responsibility in the Recovery Experience

Cosmetic plastic surgery procedures have become  routine especially here in Southern California. It is not uncommon to see marketing advertisements that advertise cosmetic procedures as”easy“-and with”little to no downtime”. Unfortunately, this has created a very lackadaisical attitude towards cosmetic procedures both noninvasive as well as invasive. It is important for patients to understand that all cosmetic surgery procedures should be considered as serious and important. Patient should adhere closely to all instructions both written and verbal from the treating physician. Dr. Seify advises patients who are scheduled for injectable procedures to be mindful of any medications prior to treatment including aspirin containing products. Each injectable procedure should be treated with the same caution even if the patient has been an injectable patient many times before. Patients are not advised to drink alcohol prior to their injection, including wine. Patients who are recovering from cosmetic surgery procedures including breast augmentation and liposuction should closely follow the patient instructions provided both at their pre-op appointment as well as the day of surgery. It is critical that patients have someone to drive them home from the surgery center as well as an adult to stay with them for the first 24 hours after surgery. Patients who do not adhere to this instruction are compromising the safety of their procedure. The first 24 hours after surgery patients can become disoriented and over medicate or injure themselves if a guardian or caregiver is not present. Patients who are having cosmetic plastic surgery may be tempted to go it alone so that no one will know they are having surgery. This is not advised. Dr. Seify and his staff provide detailed written preoperative instructions and information to patients and patients are encouraged to ask questions if they do not understand or are unable to comply with the instructions. Plastic surgery results can be compromised when patients do not follow the instructions of the plastic surgeon. Plastic surgery can be a wonderful experience provided both the patient and the doctor take their responsibilities seriously. Patients who are considering plastic surgery are encouraged to contact Dr. Seify and schedule a consultation.