These days, new techniques are making cosmetic surgery recovery much more comfortable and convenient, and it’s easier than ever to travel for plastic surgery and even bring your family or loved one along. Here are a few tips for having a good experience:
Find the right surgeon: You don’t have to live in a major city to have state-of-the-art care from the specialist of your choice, but it is important to choose a plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in your procedure.
Have a virtual consultation: Many surgeons make it really easy to take care of initial paperwork, send in photos, and communicate over phone and email before you even leave home.
Make travel arrangements and plan activities for guests: Practices that regularly have fly-in clients can point you to local resources and must-see sights, and may even be able to help you with booking. While you recuperate, your family or loved ones can enjoy local destinations.
Allow enough time for recovery: I usually request that patients stay in the area about 5 to 10 days after a surgical procedure. Generally, you will need to have a follow-up meeting with your doctor the day after surgery and at least one more time before returning home.
Plan for possible complications once you’re home: While complications are rare, when you travel for cosmetic surgery it’s important to have a doctor back home who can address any concerns. Whether it’s a facelift, liposuction, or breast augmentation (enlargement), my New Jersey fly-in patients’ care doesn’t end when they leave the area. I keep in contact with both the patient and their local doctor.