Facial reconstruction surgery can be a life-changing event for patients.

After a traumatic accident, an illness, or even to change a physical feature from birth, facial reconstruction surgery can help patients achieve a physical appearance that they are happy with, and one that functions properly.

However, the severity and importance of facial reconstruction surgery mean it is absolutely essential that patients ask their potential surgeons a set of questions, to help the patient gauge how well that surgeon can perform the procedure.

In this article, expert plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jose Barrera discusses what you should ask your doctor or surgeon before committing to facial reconstructive surgery.

What are your qualifications and experience in performing facial reconstructive surgery?

Facial reconstructive surgery is a highly specialized procedure. While it is still plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery is a subspeciality of plastic surgery, which requires specialist training and learning, different to cosmetic surgery.

For this reason, it’s imperative that you discover your surgeon’s training and if they are adequately certified to perform reconstructive surgeries.

What are the risks and potential complications of the procedure?

For several reasons, it is essential to understand the whole picture when it comes to any surgery. First, it helps you mentally prepare for any outcome. Knowing all possible results will help manage anxiety and confusion leading up to the procedure and will also help you take a realistic approach to your surgery.

Any reconstructive surgeon who is adequate to perform your facial reconstructive surgery will be able to help you fully prepare for the entire journey, including understanding the potential risks and complications.

How long will the surgery take, and what is the recovery time?

Knowing the duration and recovery time of the surgery will help you plan accordingly and make any necessary arrangements.

Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?

After reconstructive surgery, patients generally need to stay in the hospital for several nights. You need to know how long you’ll be in the hospital so you can prepare accordingly.

What will the final result look like?

While there are no absolute answers to this question, it is important that you set realistic expectations for your facial reconstructive surgery.

Experienced reconstructive surgeons will be able to give you a good idea of what to expect from your procedure, either by using imaging software or sharing before-and-after photos of similar procedures they have performed. Asking for before-and-after photos of their previous patients will also help you understand how well your potential surgeon performs the procedure.

How much will the procedure cost, and will my insurance cover it?

In most instances, insurance should cover reconstructive plastic surgery., particularly if it is the result of an accident or illness. Nonetheless, it is absolutely essential you know how much the procedure will cost and get firm confirmation from your doctor and insurance provider that they will cover the procedure, as facial reconstructive surgery is expensive.

Facial Reconstruction Surgery in San Antonio, TX

Facial reconstructive surgery can change lives. This is why it is essential that any patient fully understands the procedure and what to expect from all possible outcomes.

By asking your potential surgeon the questions we’ve discussed here, you’ll be able to get a good idea of how suitable a surgeon is for your needs, and what to expect from your facial reconstructive surgery.

To learn more, please call (210) 468-5426 or fill out Dr. Barreras’ online form to discuss how we can improve your life today.