Plastic Surgery Questions Minneapolis

• How Do I Choose a Qualified Surgeon? Importance of Board Certification

  Your surgeon’s training and experience are the most important factors in the success of your cosmetic surgery. Take the time to check your surgeon’s credentials.

• Is Your Surgeon Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

  The American Board of Medical Specialists recognizes board certification by various specialties, i.e. Pediatrics, Neurosurgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Plastic Surgery, etc. The American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes the American Board of Plastic Surgery as the ONLY board certified Plastic Surgeons.

  This is sometimes confusing to patients and is, at times, made intentionally confusing by lesser trained doctors. The question you need to ask your doctor is, “Are you board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?”

  Dr. Hoffman is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Only surgeons who are active members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons can display the symbol you see on the right. They are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are dedicated to the highest standards of patient welfare and surgical excellence.

• What Should I Expect During a Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Consultation?

  You should expect a surgeon who is friendly, professional and understanding. You should feel comfortable with your surgeon and his or her staff. Your plastic surgeon should listen closely to what you want to achieve, examine you and tell you if there is a surgery that is right for you.

  Your surgeon should also tell you what you need to know about the procedure you’re interested in, how it is performed, what results you can expect, how long recovery will take and what the possible complications of surgery are. A surgeon should answer all of your questions. Remember, every question is a good question.

  You should be shown before and after photographs of patients he or she has treated, and they should offer to allow you to contact their patients who have had the same procedure.

• What Kind of Questions Should I Ask During My Consultation?

  • Where and when did you get your medical training?
  • Are you board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
  • In what specialty are you certified?
  • Do you routinely perform the procedure I want?
  • What surgical techniques will be used?
  • How long will the procedure take?
  • How much pain is involved?
  • What are the risks and complications?
  • How long will the effect of the procedure last?
  • Is the anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist who stays during the surgery?
  • Will I be staying in the hospital or is this outpatient surgery?
  • At which hospital(s) do you have privileges to perform the procedure I’m considering?
  • Do you have malpractice insurance?
  • Are you a member of any medical societies? Which?
  • Is financing available?

• What Are the Effects of Vitamin and Herbal Remedies on Healing?

  Introduction

  A recent study found that seven out of ten patients never tell their doctors what supplements they are taking. Most believe because they are natural, they are safe. Research has shown that while some vitamins and herbal supplements are helpful in the healing process, other herbal supplements may actually be detrimental to a patient’s health. We have developed this page to help you sort out which herbs and vitamins are helpful and which could be detrimental.

  Timing

  It’s best to undertake a program of a nutritious diet with vitamin and mineral supplements 2 to 4 weeks before surgery. Some of the most important pre-surgery supplements are antioxidants, vitamins A and C, zinc and selenium. Vitamins and herbs detrimental to healing should be discontinued 2 weeks prior to surgery.

  Helpful Vitamins and Herbs

  Vitamins and herbs can assist healing following surgery and herbs, which strengthen the body, heal tissue and increase immune function.

  • Vitamin C – A water-soluble vitamin, is a potent antioxidant and performs many functions in the body. Vitamin C is vital in healing after surgery, speeds recovery and plays a major role in boosting the immune system.
  • Vitamin A – Has an important role in healing wounds, warding off infection and building the immune system. It promotes healthy skin, important in plastic surgery. However, vitamin A should be used only for a period of 2 week following surgery. Pregnant women should not use vitamin A.
  • Bromelian – An enzyme derived from pineapple. It works as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. Bromelian is an effective agent to reduce bruising. In plastic surgery this is particularly useful for eyelid surgery, facelift, and liposuction.
  • Arnica Montana – Is a supplement recommended for its ability to reduce inflammation and bruising.

  Detrimental Herbs

  • Vitamin E, Ginger, Garlic, Cayenne, Bilberry – May inhibit the ability of normal blood clotting and may lead to prolonged bleeding following surgery.
  • Gingko Biloba – Can reduce platelet activity and may lead to prolonged bleeding. This anticoagulants activity is considered to be three time stronger than vitamin E.
  • Ginseng – Is associated with hypertension (high blood pressure) and rapid heart rate. These symptoms are particularly problematic for patients undergoing eyelid surgery, facelift or nose surgery.
  • Kava Kava and Valerian – Should not be combined with sedatives sometimes prescribed for the recovery period.
  • Echinacea – Can affect liver enzymes during general surgery.
  • St. John’s Wort – Can prolong the effects of some narcotic drugs and anesthetics.