1. Are you board certified in Plastic Surgery?
All specialties can do cosmetic surgery, though plastic surgeons are typically trained in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery with strict guidelines that must be met in order to complete their board certification. Look for certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Trussler did complete a full General Surgery residency for which he is board certified by the American Board of Surgery, as well as formal Plastic Surgery training for which, he is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Trussler did complete a post-graduate fellowship in aesthetic surgery, which gives him unique and specialized training in this field. He has completed his Maintenance of Certification (MOC) for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).
2. What is your experience with this type surgery?
Ask your plastic surgeon how many of the specified procedures have they performed and if they do you have specialized training or academic interest in the type of surgery. Dr. Trussler does contribute to the scientific advancement of plastic surgery and you will find that his surgical experience is supported by his scientific knowledge of the field.
3. Where will the procedure be performed?
You should ask your board certified plastic surgeon where the procedure will be performed and if it requires an overnight stay. Look for the certification of the operating room facilities, as well as the facilities for overnight stay. Hospital affiliation is important for any patient or procedure that requires a hospital environment for their recovery, or if unforeseen hospital admission is needed after a surgical procedure. Dr. Trussler operates at multiple certified facilities with the capabilities of overnight and hospital stays.
4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
There are different types of anesthesia, which are used for different procedures and different age groups. Look for certified facilities with physician directed anesthesia, administered or overseen by board certified anesthesiologists. Dr. Trussler will discuss the type of anesthesia he would typically recommend for the procedure, but anesthesia is administered by a board certified anesthesiologist.
5. What are the risks associated with the procedure?
Every procedure has risks. Dr. Trussler will review the general risks of the specific procedure, which may include bleeding, infection and scars. Short term and long term risks will be discussed. Surgical risk can be decreased through prevention and safety.
6. What is the recovery for the procedure?
Dr. Trussler will review the time needed, if any in the after care facility or hospital. The time off work will be very procedure and work specific. Time to cardiovascular exercise ranges from 2 to 3 weeks and to heavy lifting about 4 to 6 weeks. This is as well outlined in the aftercare instructions you will receive at the time of consultation.
7. Do you have representative before and after photos of the procedure(s) to be performed?
Most plastic surgeons do have representative photos available to review. There may not be a specific patient that matches your body, but look for examples of pre and post-operative photos that are standardized and of good quality. Not every patient gives consent to release their photos for review, but there should be examples of the procedure performed. Dr. Trussler has professional photographers and a photo studio in his office and this will be part of the initial consultation. Imaging can be performed to give a realistic and representative example of your individual post-operative result.
8. Can I get an exact breakdown of the fees for the procedure?
There are multiple procedures with in plastic surgery that are covered by medical insurance, though cosmetic procedures are not. Dr. Trussler’s staff will give you an itemized estimate during your consultation, which will give the fees for anesthesia and the operating room, as well as surgical fee and any cost for implants if needed. Overnight fees can be additional costs, which are worth the extra amount for both safety and comfort while recovering from surgery.
Dr. Trussler does offer financing for surgical procedures, as well as accepts all major credit cards.
9. What kind of after care do you recommend for my procedure?
Aftercare is specific for each procedure and these instructions are provided in written form. Scar care is promoted when the initial healing phase is complete and may range from simple scar massage to nightly silicone sheating. Dr. Trussler does incorporate lymphatic massage into the recovery phase, which is administered by his massage therapist and aestheticians. Maintenance and skin care will be discussed before and after your procedure.
10. How long will the results of this operation last?
Nothing is forever, but what is acceptable is procedure and technique specific. The majority of the time, the small “mini” procedure or injection does not last as long as the more invasive technique, though this should be taken into account with amount of recovery when delineating an individualized plastic surgery plan with Dr. Trussler.
