Plastic Surgery Questions and Answers with Heart of Florida Physician Group Plastic Surgeon Tutu Cheng, M.D.

With the holidays quickly approaching, some may be thinking about how to make themselves look just a little better in those holiday photos. We asked Heart of Florida Physician Group Plastic Surgeon Tutu Cheng, M.D. some of the most common questions posed by people who are considering having a plastic surgery procedure.

Q: What are the benefits to having injections or dermal filler injections?
A: Injections and fillers can do wonders in helping an individual look and feel refreshed and vibrant. The physical improvement will definitely provide a boost in one’s self-esteem and confidence level, which is the ultimate benefit! Injections will help in smoothing out the fine wrinkles in the upper face and around the eyes that are the result of years of facial expressions, like smiling and frowning. In doing so, a more relaxed and youthful appearance can be achieved. Fillers will help with the deeper creases on the face, especially the “smile lines” around the nose and mouth. Fillers will “fill in” these deep creases and soften one’s appearance, creating a rejuvenated appearance.

Q: How long do the benefits last?
A: Results may vary with each individual but, in general, injections last about 4 to 6 months and dermal fillers last about 6 to 12 months.

Q: What it the cost? Does most insurance pay for this procedure?
A: In general, insurance companies will cover procedures that are deemed “medically necessary”. Although facial rejuvenation procedures like injections and fillers can certainly help an individual look great and feel even better, it is not considered medically necessary and so, it is not covered by most insurance plans.

Q: How long does it take to see results?
Injections and fillers work differently. The effects of fillers are nearly immediate and you will definitely appreciate its benefits by the end of your office visit. Injections, on the other hand, takes about 72 hours to fully relax the muscles of facial expression that were targeted during the procedure. With both procedures, however, minor side effects including localized redness, swelling and bruising can occur. These side effects will generally resolve within a week.

Q: If I wanted it done before a holiday party, when would I need to have the procedure done?
A: Plan ahead and schedule your consultation at least 1-2 weeks before any big party or get-together with friends and family to ensure you will be looking your best.

Q: Are dermal fillers a common procedure? Are many people getting these procedures done?
A: In 2017, more than 7 million injection procedures and nearly 3 million dermal filler procedures were performed in the U.S. Your friends and family may or may not be willing to admit they want cosmetic procedures, but clearly it is very well perceived and received in today’s culture.

Q. Why should I schedule my consultation with a plastic surgeon?
A: The steps to becoming a plastic surgeon include many years of surgical training to operate and perform procedures on the entire body; i.e., from head to toe. Within the discipline of plastic surgery, there is a dedicated focus and appreciation for the face and complex anatomy. This translates to having the medical knowledge and technical expertise that is necessary in providing the best aesthetic outcomes for patients.

For more information about plastic surgery procedures, please make an appointment with Dr. Cheng for a free consultation by calling (863) 419-8140 or schedule online at HOFPlastics.com.

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