What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?
Cosmetic surgery reshapes typical structures of the body to improve appearance and self-esteem.
Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body caused by:
- Congenital disabilities
- Developmental abnormalities
- Trauma
- Infection
- Tumors
- Disease
Reconstructive surgery is performed to improve function but may also be completed to restore the patient’s appearance approximately.
How long will I need someone to help care for me after the surgery?
You will need someone with you for 24 hours following the procedure because you will be recovering from anesthesia during this time, and someone must drive you home. After that, you will likely need assistance with your day-to-day activities for the next six weeks.
What activities should I avoid after my surgery? And for how long?
For at least six weeks following your surgery, you should avoid the following:
- Heavy lifting, which is anything over 20lbs
- Pushing or pulling heavy objects
- Exercising, other than light walking
You will also need to wear a compression garment for those six weeks, depending on which plastic surgery procedure you underwent. Generally, you can resume everyday activities as soon as you feel comfortable doing so.
How long should I expect to be out of work?
How long you’ll be out of work depends on the type of surgery you have and your work. However, you should plan to take between three days and two weeks off of work. Breast augmentation patients commonly return to light, sedentary work within three days, while more invasive surgeries like Brazilian butt lifts and mommy makeovers require at least fourteen days.
How long will I be sore from the surgery?
Post-surgery soreness largely depends on the surgery you selected. Inflammation usually peaks three days after surgery, when swelling and pain begin to subside.
How long until the swelling goes down?
Initial swelling starts to subside about two weeks after surgery, but wound healing can take six to twelve months. An example is how the swelling from a breast augmentation lasts approximately two weeks, but the implants remain high on the chest wall for up to three months before dropping into the resting position over the breast fold.
How long until the final results of the surgery are visible?
You’ll likely see the final results of your surgery after three months, with minimal changes until the 6-month mark.
How many follow-up visits should I expect?
You will have your first follow-up appointment at one-week post-op, then another at two to three months. More appointments may be scheduled as needed.
What is the price range for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures?
Price ranges significantly depending on the type of surgery being performed. While pricing estimates are available for all of our most popular procedures, these quotes are dependent on your case and the extent of treatment.
Quotes for plastic surgery include:
- All pre-op evaluations
- Photos
- Visitation with staff & doctor
- Surgical garments
- Anesthesia
What are your Virtual/Telehealth consultations like?
The LaVie Institute provides virtual/telehealth consultations, connecting patients to a lifeline for a wide range of treatment options that can make a difference in their lives. We are committed to using technology to bridge communication gaps and make care as convenient, streamlined, and stress-free as possible.
