This
year, more than two million North Americans will improve the way they
look through plastic surgery. Men and women, young and old, people from
all walks of life who want to make a change for the better.
Modern
technology, using lasers and fiberoptic telescopes for example, are
safer, more effective, and longer-lasting than ever before. Results are
natural looking, predictable, and attractive. With increasing
affordability and faster / easier recovery, patient satisfaction is
very high. Studies have shown that more than 95% of plastic surgery
patients are so pleased they would do it again. This explains why the
popularity of plastic surgery is growing so rapidly. In the last
decade, acceptance of plastic surgery has more than doubled in North
America.
As the new millennium begins, we expect to enjoy life
to its fullest through better nutrition, exercise, and a youthful
outlook. Modern medicine has provided us with a longer life-span and
better quality of life. It is only natural that we want to continue to
look as young as we feel.
Many would agree that what is on the
inside of a person is more important than what is on the outside. In
our society, however, we know that the outside is often important too.
Our appearance can have a direct impact on how we feel about ourselves
and how we are perceived. Cosmetic surgery can often lead to improved
self-esteem and confidence. It is about a normal person wanting to make
a change for the better.
The Consult
The
consultation will provide complete information about the procedure of
interest to you. Dr. Edelstein will discuss your goals and
expectations, and will review your medical history. He will then
conduct a thorough examination.
After determining what treatment
alternatives are available, he will explain to you the benefits and
expected results of the treatment as well as the risks and
complications of each alternative. You will have a good understanding
of the required aftercare and expected recovery.
Once the
consultation is complete, Dr. Edelstein will create an information
packet for you that is mailed out immediately. This packet contains a
summary of the consultation, a brochure highlighting the procedure you
are interested in, and a specific quote for the cost of surgery
detailing all fees.
The Surgery
If you are looking for information on specific cosmetic procedures, please see the HOME page.
The
following section contains general information about what to expect
around the time of your cosmetic surgery, including pre-operative
preparation and the post-operative recovery period. Potential
complications will also be discussed.
PRE-OPERATIVE PREPARATION
Comprehensive
written instructions will be given to you to help you prepare for the
surgery. The following is a review of the important points:
Two weeks before surgery:
·
Do not take any aspirin-containing products, anti-inflammatories (e.g.
ibuprofen, advil, motrin), blood thinners (e.g. coumadin, warfarin,
anacrot), or vitamin E for 14 days prior to your operation. These
medications thin the blood and greatly increase the risk of bleeding.
Tylenol can be taken safely. · All other medications may be taken,
but please make sure Dr. Edelstein and the anesthesiologist are aware
of any medications you take, including any herbal, diet, or alternative
drugs. · Smoking should be stopped at least 2 weeks prior to your
operation, and you should refrain from smoking at least 2 weeks after
the operation as well. Smoking greatly increases the risk of poor wound
healing and even skin loss. · Please notify our office prior to your surgery if you develop a cold or infection.
Night Before and Day of Surgery:
·
Nothing to eat or drink (not even water) after midnight the night
before, and morning of surgery. If you do eat or drink, your surgery
will likely be canceled. · You can take all your regular medications
(for example, cardiac or blood pressure pills) on the morning of
surgery with a small sip of water (except those mentioned above !!).
Please check with Dr. Edelstein if you are unsure. · You must
arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and to stay with
you on the first night after your procedure. If you are staying
overnight, someone should drive you home the next morning. · Remove all make-up and nail polish the night before surgery. · If you are having facelift or browlift surgery, wash your face with soap and shampoo your hair the night before surgery. · If you are having breast surgery, make sure you have a wireless bra available to bring into the operating room: For breast reduction patients, an old bra will do. For
breast augmentation patients, a bra with a larger cup size (B, C, D
etc) will be necessary. Your chest circumference, however, will remain
the same (the "number", for example, 32, 34, 36 etc will remain the
same). It is more convenient if the clasp is in the front rather
than in back. A good bra for breast augmentation patients is the
Triumph Sports Bra Style # 826 (available at most department stores). · Do not bring any money, jewelry, or other valuables with you. ·
Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing that is easy to put on and
take off (e.g. sweat pants, button or zipper shirt). All patients
having facial surgery or a laser procedure should not wear any
pull-over type garments, but rather clothes that do up with buttons or
a zipper. · You should not operate a motor vehicle or hazardous machinery for 24 hours following your procedure. ·
Be prepared to take time off work. In general, at least 5-7 days (this
varies quite a bit depending on the procedure). Try to avoid strenuous
work or exercise during this period. It is helpful to have someone at
your home that can assist you.
Photography:
· Photographs
are taken either in the office or on the day of surgery. Clinical
photography is an important part of your medical record, just like
x-rays. We do not show before and after photographs of our patients
without their consent.
THE POST-OPERATIVE RECOVERY PERIOD
·
The healing time for a given procedure varies between different
patients. Dr. Edelstein will review the general recovery you might
expect. Individual patients may experience variations from this course.
·
Complete written instructions are provided to you for the
post-operative period, including instructions regarding Washing,
Activities and Exercise, Make-up, Sutures and Drains, and Massage.
·
When you awake from your surgery, you will be in the recovery room. A
nurse will be present to take care of you. You may have a dressing or
support garment on. If you are not staying overnight, you will be able
to go home when you have fully recovered from the sedation. A
prescription for pain medication and possibly antibiotics will be ready
for you. Dr. Edelstein can be contacted at any time (including after
hours) if any questions or concerns arise. You will be seen within a
few days of the surgery to ensure your recovery is progressing normally.
The following is a list of common things that can occur in the post-operative period:
·
Pain and Discomfort: you may feel some pain and discomfort, but this is
generally well controlled by pain medications. Most patients experience
a moderate degree of discomfort for the first week or so. · Nausea
and Vomiting: a few patients react to the anesthetic after surgery with
nausea and vomiting. This usually lasts less than 24 hours and should
be treated with lots of fluids, Gravol, and rest. · Swelling:
maximum swelling occurs at about 3-5 days. Most of the swelling will be
gone in 2 or 3 weeks, but small amounts can last longer. The final
result can be assessed at 3 or 4 months. · Bruising: most bruising resolves within 10-14 days. Some light discolouration can last longer. ·
Drainage: small amounts of fluid or blood can leak from your incision
for the first 2-3 days - this is normal and helps to remove any excess
fluid or blood present · Sensory changes: many patients experience
numbness over the treatment areas. Over time, the feeling will
gradually return to normal in most patients, usually by 3 months if not
sooner. · Scar redness: Scars will initially be red and a little
raised, but over 3-6 months they usually get lighter in colour and
flatten out. Occasionally, scars on the breast or body may take up to a
year to fade completely.
Psychology:
· There is a very
common pattern of adjustment after cosmetic surgery. Initial
post-operative excitement and euphoria ("You made it!") can become
concern and sometimes even depression ("Why did I do this?"). This is
followed by approval and contentment. Recognizing this pattern and
realizing that it will settle will help ease the tension.
Family & Friends:
·
Support from family and friends is very helpful, but, because they may
not understand what constitutes a normal postoperative course, their
comments may unintentionally create emotional turmoil for you. We will
tell you honestly how you are doing. Please trust in our knowledge and
experience when we discuss your progress with you. · Although
plastic surgery has certainly become more visible in the past decade,
your friends may still be reluctant to bring up and discuss what they
believe is a private matter. Patients occasionally feel upset that "no
one noticed" or "said anything". If you feel comfortable discussing
your surgical experience, do so openly. This lets people know that they
may talk freely with you. Often when patients are open, they find that
their friends and acquaintances are very interested in discussing the
subject.
Following Instructions:
· A major factor
contributing to smooth, uncomplicated post-operative recovery involves
carefully following the post-operative instructions given to you by Dr.
Edelstein. Such guidelines are designed to promote the healing process
and to prevent the occurrence of anything which may interfere with
recovery. Your cooperation and close attention is extremely important
and is in your best interest.
COMPLICATIONS
·
Complications can occur with any surgical procedure. Although most
patients don?t experience any complications, you have to be willing to
accept that they are possible. The importance of having a highly
qualified surgeon cannot be overstated. Dr. Edelstein uses his
knowledge and experience to try and prevent complications before they
occur. If a complication does occur, he uses those same skills in an
attempt to solve the problem quickly. Most complications cause an
extension of the recovery period rather than any permanent effect on
the final result. Infrequently, complications may require additional
surgery, healing time, and expense.
The following is a list of
complications that can occur with any surgery. During your
consultation, Dr. Edelstein will also review risks that are associated
with your particular procedure.
· Hematoma (blood collection):
small collections under the skin are allowed to absorb spontaneously.
Larger hematomas may require aspiration or even surgical drainage. · Infection: infections are usually treated with antibiotics. Development of an abscess may require surgical drainage. ·
Wound separation or Delayed healing: wound disruption or delayed
healing is possible, particularly if there is an infection. Incisions
may take a long time to heal and require frequent dressing changes.
Smokers and Diabetics have a greater risk of skin loss and wound
healing complications due to decreased blood flow. · Scarring:
excessive scarring is uncommon. In rare cases, abnormal scars may
result. Scars may be unattractive and of different color than
surrounding skin. Additional treatments including surgery may be
necessary to treat abnormal scarring. · Injury to deeper structures: nerves and muscles may be injured during surgery. The occurrence of such injuries is rare. ·
Serious complications (eg. pulmonary embolism, severe allergic
reactions to medications, heart attack): these are rare but potentially
life-threatening. Having a board certified anesthesiologist present at
your surgery reduces these risks as much as possible. · Poor
results: while the procedures are performed with a high degree of
success, poor results can occur (eg. asymmetry, poor scars). Minimal
differences are usually acceptable. Larger differences may require
additional procedures.
Facilities
Initial consultations with Dr. Edelstein are held at our office, 960 Lawrence Avenue West, Suite 301.
Dr.
Edelstein operates at both the Humber River Regional Hospital, a fully
accredited hospital in Toronto, and at a private mid-town cosmetic
surgery facility, the Forest Hill Institute of Cosmetic Surgery. Both
these locations have the highest standards of safety and patient care,
and offer only the most modern medical equipment in an atmosphere of
privacy and comfort.
A certified anesthesiologist is always
present during surgery. Our anesthesiologists are exceptionally good at
what they do, and have an outstanding record of safety. The operating
room nurses are fully trained registered nurses.
Financial
Once
your consultation with Dr. Edelstein is complete, he will create an
information packet for you. This packet will contain a specific quote
for the procedure you are interested in. The quote will cover all costs
except for any prescription medications you may require after surgery.
A variety of payment options are available including cash, certified cheque, debit card, VISA, Mastercard, and American Express.
Financing
can be arranged through Credit Medical (www.creditmedical.com) or
Medicard Finance (www.medicard.com), national financing organizations
that offer services for cosmetic plastic surgery procedures.
The
following represents the average fee for a given procedure. Dr.
Edelstein individualizes the cost of surgery for each patient as the
complexity of the problem varies from person to person. The quote you
will receive in the information packet may be more or less than that
stated below:
· Breast Augmentation: Saline Implants: $ 5900 · Breast Augmentation: Cohesive Gel Implants: $ 6800 - 7300 · Breast Lift / Reduction: $ 7500 · Gynecomastia (male breast reduction): $ 4000 · Abdominoplasty (tummy-tuck): $ 7700 - 8700 · Liposuction: $ 2000 - 8000 (depends on number of areas treated) · Facelift: $ 12000 · Eyelid surgery: Upper OR Lower Eyelids:$ 4500 / Upper AND Lower Eyelids:$ 7500 · Browlift (forehead lift): $ 6500 · Otoplasty (ear pinning): $ 6500 · Lip Augmentation: $ 600 - 3000 (depends on technique) · Bo-tox Injections: $ 700 · Restylane / Perlane Injections: $ 550 · Fat Transplantation: $ 500 - 3000 (depends on number of areas treated) · Chemical Peel: $ 250 - 2000 (depends on number of areas treated) · Cheek Augmentation: $ 4000 · Chin Augmentation: $ 3000
Is Plastic Surgery Right For You ?
Plastic
surgery has obvious and often dramatic benefits. It is not, however,
for everyone. If you are considering plastic surgery, keep in mind the
following:
1) Understand the limitations as well as the benefits
of plastic surgery. No surgery can achieve perfection, and there is no
guarantee that the results will look exactly they way you envision them.
2)
Have realistic expectations. Plastic surgery can reshape your body, not
your life. Although an enhanced appearance after surgery can improve
your self-esteem, plastic surgery will not solve career, marital, or
emotional problems.
3) Time your surgery at a point when you don't feel exceptional stress and when you have emotional support available.
4) Be prepared to tolerate some discomfort after surgery.
5) Understand that, like any surgery, plastic surgery has risks. There is a possibility of side effects such as scars.
6)
Know that plastic surgery is not suitable for people who are prone to
mood swings or erratic behavior, who are receiving treatment for
clinical depression or other mental illness, or who abuse drugs or
alcohol.
In the Media
Dr. Edelstein is regularly quoted in newspapers and magazines, appears on television, and lectures on cosmetic surgery topics:
Television: - Skin Deep: "Gynecomastia" and "Breast Augmentation" - Cosmetic Innovations: "Endoscopic Breast Augmentation" - Life Network: "Three Takes"
Newspapers: - National Post: "73 isn't too old to consider plastic surgery?" - Toronto Sun: "Mirror, mirror..." - Calgary Herald: "Cohesive gel breast implant offers new option for women" and "Trim down, then tighten up" - Toronto Star: "Are you ready for plastic surgery ?"
Magazines: - Fashion Magazine: "Top Cosmetic Surgeons in Toronto" (SEE PHOTO ABOVE) - Centre of the City Magazine: "Mirror, mirror, on the wall" - Elevate Magazine: "Man Boobs" and "Considering Liposuction?" - Oxygen Magazine: "Cosmetic Surgery - On the Cutting Edge" - New You Magazine: "Complete Body Makeover"
Appearances: - New You Show - LifeFest: "Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, and Tummy-tuck: The Complete Body Makeover"
