Why are credentials important in plastic surgery?

The words "caveat emptor" which mean "let the buyer beware" have never been more relevant for patients seeking cosmetic surgery. In most states it is legal for any physician who has a medical license to "promote" and "perform" cosmetic surgery. Their training varies from a weekend course to a year, and many have been given "certificates" which can be of dubious value.

However, the American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only plastic surgery board recognized by the American Medical Association and the American Board of Medical Specialties. Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery requires completion of a minimum of five years of residency after medical school, several years of post-residency practice, and passing comprehensive oral and written examinations given by experienced plastic surgeons.

There are 6 000 plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and 45,000 others that call themselves plastic surgeons but who are not ABPS certified. Thus only about 10% of physicians claiming to be plastic surgeons are really certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

How long will results last?

There is no precise answer since this is about perception. The best answer is forever: you will always look better than if you did not have surgery. While cosmetic surgery turns back the clock, aging is continuous, and depends on genetics, sun exposure, and other factors. Most patients will perceive the need for a "tune-up" 7-10 years after face lift surgery, whereas eyelid plasty may last 10-12 years.

If I have it done now, won't I need it again in a few years?

Not necessarily. While many patients choose to have touchups as they continue to age, cosmetic surgery itself does not accelerate aging. We have many lesser procedures to help maintain your looks. Again the answer depends on perception. Many patients continue to be fastidious about their appearance and wish to maintain it with more frequent touch-ups.

What does surgery cost?

Costs vary considerable depending on the amount of work needed. At the time of your consultation, a fee quote will be provided, and will include a charge for surgery, the anesthesia, and the operating facility.

Is financing available?

If you are interested in this option, our patient care coordinator will review various choices with you.

What is a mini-face lift?

Some patients, usually those in their late 30's and early 40s, may show early aging changes primarily in the lower third of the face. They are good candidates to have a less extensive "mini-lift" that fixes jowls and restores a nice, youthful contour of their neck and jawline. The extent of the incisions is limited and recovery is about 5 days.

What is the "weekend face lift"?

This is actually a misnomer, since no one can really look perfectly well in only 1-2 days. This procedure is aimed at improving the area under the chin ("double chin") and jawline. It is done through only a one inch incision under the chin, and a chin implant is used when needed. A microliposuction of the jowls is often done at the same time.

What is Power-Assisted Liposuction?

Power assisted liposuction is a procedure that uses a power cannula to facilitate movement in the tissue, whereas the surgeon manually manipulates the cannula in more traditional liposuction procedures. This is the latest advance in liposuction, and has made UAL (ultrasonic liposuction) almost obsolete in our practice because it is so much safer. The benefits include less body trauma on the patient, which promotes quicker recovery and faster healing.

My breasts sag but are not overly large. What can be done?

If the sagging is not severe, a "nipple lift" or "crescent mastopexy" can be performed. The excess skin is removed after making an incision around the outside of the areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple). The resulting scar is confined to the area where the pigmented skin meets the normal skin at the edge of the areola.

In cases of more severe sagging, a procedure similar to breast reduction may be performed by removing skin only - not breast tissue - to result in a more youthful shape. Breast lifting is an excellent alternative to breast implants for many patients.

Dr. Morello also offers a special Brazilian breast lift which is the only procedure which can restore long lasting fullness to the upper part of the breasts.