You've had cosmetic surgery or reconstructive surgery and now you need to learn about careful follow-up care.

Your doctor probably has instructed you on immediate post-operative follow-up care. But this type of surgery is unlike any other. Follow up care also means a commitment by you and your doctor to maintain your new look for the long-term. Your own follow-up care is going to be determined by the type of cosmetic surgery, your age, your lifestyle and, of course, your expectations.

Facts About Follow-Up Care After Cosmetic Surgery

You've had cosmetic surgery or reconstructive surgery and now you need to learn about careful follow-up care.

Your doctor probably has instructed you on immediate post-operative follow-up care. But this type of surgery is unlike any other. Follow up care also means a commitment by you and your doctor to maintain your new look for the long-term. Your own follow-up care is going to be determined by the type of cosmetic surgery, your age, your lifestyle and, of course, your expectations.

Your doctor should be active in ensuring the best follow-up care after cosmetic surgery and your satisfaction with the results. Here are some facts you should know:

• Follow-up cosmetic surgery may be required to correct an effect from surgery (such as a ruptured breast implant). Follow-up cosmetic surgeries may also be required if you are not satisfied with the initial results.

   

• You should know when to start evaluating your new look. That is, how long after your cosmetic surgery should you begin evaluating your look? This may be weeks, or it may be months. Remember, depending on your procedure, you have to give yourself adequate time to heal before you analyze the results.

To help you with follow-up care, here are some questions to ask your cosmetic surgeon:

• How long will your new look last? If you've received injections, how often will you have to return for new injections to maintain the look?

   

• When should you begin considering any necessary follow up cosmetic surgeries?

   

• If you've undergone a facelift, neck lift, or other facial lifts, will it be necessary to have these done again in your lifetime?

   

• How will your insurance be impacted? Will your premiums increase and will your future coverage be affected? What is your doctor's experience in this area? What has he or she seen happen with other patients?

It's important to feel comfortable discussing every question and concern you have with your doctor. This cosmetic surgery was your choice to improve your life and your look. Don't back down from getting exactly the end results you wanted.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic, Department of Plastic Surgery.

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