Please call the office for a "ballpark" price, quote but remember that each surgery varies depending on the individuals needs.

No. Insurance does not pay for cosmetic surgery. Some procedures (i.e. Breast Reduction) are covered by insurance if they cause "functional" problems (like back pain, should strap pain, etc...)

There are risks with any surgery; infection, excessive bleeding, abnormal scarring, poor healing, slow healing, skin loss, and changes in skin sensation. Fortunately, most complications are rare.

For general health reasons, I recommend that all my patients stop smoking.

Most prescribed medications should be taken before and after your surgery.

Most cosmetic surgery is performed in and out surgery at the George Washington University in and out facility.

Virtually all cosmetic surgery can be done as an outpatient. Some patients choose to spend one or two nights in the hospital. Another alternative is home nursing care. This can be arranged through my office.

No! It is impossible to predict how you will respond immediately after the surgery.

Traveling long distances or for long periods of time can be problematic after surgery.

How long you are off work depends on what you do and what procedure you undergo.

Anytime surgery is done there is a risk of loss of feeling of the skin. This can be a result of stretching, bruising, swelling, and/or cutting nerves. Most major nerves are avoided but there is variability in anatomy and nerve position. Fortunately most changes in feeling or sensation are temporary although, it can take one to two years for nerve function to return, and even then it may not return to normal.

Don't overdo it. Although you might want to resume your regular activites and full schedule, you need to take time to heal. Returning to work & your daily activites too quickly can slow down your healing or even permanently damage the results by opening the incision or increaseing the swelling. Healing takes time; the time you invest in healing you will reap in better results. If possible, rest for two weeks before returning to work unless it is very "minor" surgery. If you must return sooner, keep your stress level low and remember, no heavy lifting (5 pounds or more). Slow down. Although you may be tempted to push yourself, you need to be patient and abide by the activity restrictions set forth by Dr. Olding & his staff. You must not do any strenuous exercise for 10 days follwing surgery (that includes sex).

You can take leisurely walks (slow enough that you do not break into a sweat) within a few days after surgery for most surgeries. Putting on the Brakes. You can drive about one week after surgery (but this may be much longer for some surgeries) as long as you are completely off of narcotic pain medication and feel as if you can react normally in case of an emergency. Be aware that your movements may be more restricted making it more difficult, even painful to drive.