FAQ

Q. What does “board certified” mean?

A. Cosmetic surgery requires extensive training to produce a skillful surgeon. Our surgeons have all been trained in approved plastic and reconstructive surgery residencies in every type of cosmetic surgery. Only surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery can offer you this assurance. This is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties for performing all cosmetic surgery procedures.

Q. Is Dr. Kendall board certified?

A. Yes. Dr. Kendall is board certified and fully trained in all types of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Q. What is plastic surgery?

A. Plastic surgery is a family of procedures that can be used to achieve cosmetic or reconstructive goals. For people who wish to enhance their appearance, cosmetic surgery can reshape and refine the features of the body and the face to meet the goals of the individual. Reconstructive procedures can address congenital problems and defects and problems caused by injury and disease. Most plastic surgeries do not actually involve the use of plastic; the name comes from the Greek “plastikos,” meaning “to mold or shape.”

Q. What will my cosmetic surgery consultation be like?

A. Dr. Kendall will sit with you and listen to your goals. After examining you and considering your goals, he will inform you of your options and answer any questions you may have. You should come to your consultation prepared to discuss any medical conditions you may have, any medications you are currently taking, drug allergies, any past surgeries you have had, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and use of vitamins and supplements.

Dr. Kendall will also evaluate your general health and suitability for the procedure you want and will closely examine any areas that will be affected by the procedure. He may take photographs for his records. He will also discuss possible side effects and complications, the use of anesthesia, any downtime that accompanies the surgery and what you can reasonably expect in terms of your surgical outcome.

If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, be sure to tell Dr. Kendall. He may recommend that you stabilize your weight prior to undergoing surgery, especially if you will be undergoing a breast or body procedure.

Q. Is plastic surgery painful?

A. All surgery comes with a certain amount of discomfort, but we go to great lengths to ensure that your surgical experience will be as pleasant as possible. Anesthesia during surgery should alleviate or eliminate pain, and appropriate pain medications will be prescribed to address post-operative discomfort.

Q. What do I need to do to prepare for surgery?

A. Dr. Kendall and his staff will provide very specific instructions based on the procedure you are having, but these are some general guidelines:

• You may be asked to have specific testing (such as a mammogram if you are having a breast-related procedure).
• You may be placed on certain medications or be asked to adjust or suspend the use of certain medications, vitamins and supplements.
• You will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery (smokers encounter far more complications and take longer to recover).
• You must avoid taking anti-inflammatories, herbal supplements, aspirin or other blood thinners.

Q. Will I have to be asleep for the surgery?

A. This depends on the procedure. Many plastic surgery procedures necessitate general anesthesia, but some do not. Dr. Kendall will use his best judgment as to what method of anesthesia is appropriate. All patients receiving anesthesia will receive close supervision by highly trained professionals.

Q. How long does it usually take to recover from plastic surgery?

A. Recovery time will vary greatly from individual to individual. You should ask your surgeon what to expect as you recover during your initial consultation. Dr. Kendall believes in setting honest, realistic expectations and will give you the best possible answers based on his wealth of surgical experience. Smokers invariably encounter longer recovery times, and should consider stopping prior to surgery.

Q. Will I look natural after surgery?

A. Dr. Kendall combines his experience and the most advanced techniques available to achieve a natural appearance. Most surgical procedures are accompanied by small amounts of scarring, but Dr. Kendall minimizes visible scarring as much as possible by placing incisions in discreet locations.

Q. How long will my results last?

A. Cosmetic surgery can significantly turn back the clock. The results are permanent, but will change over time as you grow older. In some cases, revisions are an option.

Q. What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?

A. Cosmetic surgery changes the normal features of the body and face to improve the patient’s appearance and self-confidence. These procedures are not typically covered by insurance.

Reconstructive surgery changes injured or abnormal features of the body and face, caused by trauma, congenital defects, abnormal development, disease, tumors or infection. Generally speaking, reconstructive surgery improves function and health, but can also lead to a more normal appearance. Generally speaking, insurance plans cover reconstructive procedures, though levels of coverage and the procedures that are considered reconstructive vary greatly depending on your insurance.

Certain procedures can fall into both categories. For instance, a breast reduction may become necessary if large breasts lead to chronic back and shoulder pain. Dr. Kendall and his staff will help you determine which category your procedure falls under, though you may need to speak to your insurance provider.