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Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of some frequently asked questions, but please feel free to contact us if you need additional information.  Once of our patient coordinators will be happy to assist you.


 


Is Dr. Joseph a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon?

Yes.  Dr. Joseph is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, as well as the American Board of Bariatric Medicine and the American Board of Emergency Medicine.  When choosing a cosmetic surgeon, it is very important to make sure they are board certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.  

 

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What is the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS)?

The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery is an accredited council of professionals devoted to post-graduate medical teaching and physician education in the field of cosmetic surgery.  It is the nation's largest multi-disciplinary medical organization that exclusively devotes its educational efforts to cosmetic surgery.  The AACS membership is comprised of surgeons from a variety of disciplines including plastic surgeons, dermatologists, otolaryngologists ( head and neck surgeons), facial plastic surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, ophthalmologists and other physicians who, through rigorous education, are practicing cosmetic surgeons.  AACS represents the interest of cosmetic surgeons in the American Medical Association via the House of Delegates.  

 

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How does the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery differ from the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
  1. Board certification in plastic and reconstructive surgery doesn't necessarily equate with experience in cosmetic surgery.

  2. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is the only board that certifies exclusively for expertise in cosmetic surgery. 

 

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What is cosmetic surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is a specialty dedicated to the enhancement of the face and body.  For those who wish to improve their appearance, cosmetic surgical procedures offer patients the opportunity to reshape physical features and improve their self-esteem.

 

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Is cosmetic surgery painful?

Patient tolerate postoperative pain in ways that are different from each other.  Appropriate pain medications, which minimize discomfort, are prescribed for postoperative patients.

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How long will my results last?

There is no precise answer to this question.  Surgery does not affect the ongoing aging process which is largely dependent upon genetics.  What cosmetic plastic surgery does is turn back the clock.  Unfortunately, aging is inevitable.  Although with cosmetic surgery you are able to continue to look more youthful and in shape.

 

 

 

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What kind of anesthesia is used?

Dr. Joseph performs surgery under most types of anesthesia:  local anesthesia, intravenous sedation ("twilight"), general anesthesia and regional anesthesia (nerve blocks).  The method of anesthesia used is based on the patient and surgeon's preference.   

 

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Will I be able to breast feed after breast enlargement surgery?

Yes.  Breast augmentation should not affect your ability to breast feed. 

 

 

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Are there risks involved in breast augmentation surgery?

Every surgical procedure entails some risk.  Those associated with this type of surgery are infection, changes in the sensitivity of the breast, and scar contracture.  These and other complications rarely occur and can usually be avoided.  Thousands of women undergo breast augmentation successfully each year and are very satisfied with their outcome.

 

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Is there some other way that I could increase my breast size other than breast augmentation?

Yes, Dr. Joseph is one of only a few surgeons trained to use the Brava® system.  The only clinically proven, nonsurgical approach to breast enlargement.  The Brava System is based on the scientific principle of tension-induced tissue growth, which has been used for over 30 years in various medical applications to successfully grow and reconstruct soft tissue.

The Brava System applies a sustained and gentle pulling action to the breast area.  This gentle action stimulates the tissue cells to expand and grow, thus increasing breast tissue volume gradually, naturally, and safely.  When worn over a 10-week period and supervised by a physician, the system typically results in a lasting increase of approximately one cup size and adds lift to the breast.

 

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What type of implants do you use for breast augmentation?

The saline implants (filled with sterile saline solution) used for breast augmentation surgery are available in both round and teardrop shapes.  They also come in both smooth and textured styles.  Dr. Joseph will discuss which implant type would best give you the results you are seeking.

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Do the implants have to be changed after several years?

No, as long as there are not problems with the implants they should not have to be replaced.  Dr. Joseph uses only American manufactured implants that have a warranty for life from the manufacturer and are FDA approved

 

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What if the implant ruptures?

Today's saline implants are more durable than ever.  Although risk of rupture is extremely small, if this should happen, the implant deflates as your body absorbs the saline.  There is absolutely no health hazard should this happen.  The implant can be easily replaced with minimal discomfort.  The implants Dr. Joseph uses have a warranty by the manufacturer and they will usually replace the implants and give you monies towards the cost of the replacement.

 

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What is a tummy tuck and what is it for?

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, as it is more formally known, is an operation meant to rejuvenate the abdominal area by a combination of tightening the muscles that may well be stretched out (usually in the case of women through child bearing), and removing the loose excess skin of the abdomen as well.  In the operation, an incision is made in the bikini line.  The skin and fat of the abdomen is lifted all the way up to the ribs, the belly button is left in place and then the muscles are tightened and the skin and fatty tissue are pulled tightly.  The excess skin is removed, and the wound is stitched back up.

 

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What is power assisted Liposuction?

Power assisted liposuction uses a power cannula to facilitate movement in the tissue, whereas the surgeon manually manipulates the cannula in more traditional liposuction procedures.  The benefits include less body trauma on the patient, which promotes quicker recovery and faster healing.

 

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Will fat return to areas that have been liposuctioned?

You are born with essentially a fixed number of fat cells that increase or decrease in size based upon weight gain or loss.  When cells are removed, they do not grow back.  However that does not mean that you can't gain weight!  You can and will, if you are not careful about your diet and exercise.  But the excess fat will be deposited predominately in areas other than those that have been liposuctioned.

 

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What is Botox?

Botox is a purified byproduct of a medically grown bacteria.  Botox temporarily weakens any muscle in which it has contact.  It is used to eliminate unwanted furrows, or lines, between the eyebrows or on the forehead.  Botox also has been used on "crows feet" and also on the vertical lines on your upper lip.  Botox is safely performed in the office and there is minimal down time.

 

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Will I look natural after my surgery?

The techniques used by Dr. Joseph create a natural, non-surgical appearance.  Every effort is made to improve your appearance in the most natural view.

 

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When can I go back to work?

The length of time for recuperation after cosmetic surgery varies depending on the procedure.  Most patients will require assistance for a day or so and then will be able to care for themselves.  We will discuss with you in detail your postoperative care and recovery instructions.  The techniques offered today allow patients to return to work fairly soon following surgery.

 

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When can I begin to exercise?

Depending on the procedure performed determines when a patient may resume physical exercise.  All patients are encouraged to start a slow walking routine and hold off on anything more strenuous until after consulting with Dr. Joseph.

 

 

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What is microdermabrasion?

Sometimes called a "lunchtime" peel, microdermabrasion is well tolerated procedure that is performed in the office in about 20-30 minutes.  Using sodium bicarbonate crystals, the registered nurse performs the peel which helps to exfoliate the top layer of skin.  While recommending a series of 3-6 treatments, a single treatment can be performed to help improve the skin's appearance.  After a series, you should begin to notice a difference in the look and feel of your skin, as well as a reduction in fine lines and age spots.

 

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Is there a right age for cosmetic surgery?

There is no ideal age to have cosmetic surgery.  The time to have an elective procedure is when the desired change will justify the time, effort and the cost involved.  Another factor to take in consideration is the potential length of time to enjoy the benefits.  For example, if an individual has a facelift earlier in life, the rewards of this surgery can be enjoyed for a greater period of time.

 

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1852 Bay Scott Circle
Suite 104
Naperville, Illinois 60540
U.S.A.

Tel: (630) 717-8200
      (877)-717-8200

Fax: (630) 717-8202
       

E-Mail - info@mycosmeticsurgeon.com


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