FAQs

Who is a good candidate for plastic surgery?

A patient who is medically healthy with reasonable expectations of results and goals. A consultation with Dr. Kao or Dr. Wallman will help to determine this.

Is there an age range for plastic surgery?

No, as long as you are medically healthy, procedures can be done safely .

Is there anything I can do to prepare for my surgery?

Being fit and well rested is the best way to approach any surgery. Any smokers should completely stop 3-4 weeks before and after surgery. All other instructions are given to the patient prior to surgery.

Where will my surgery be done?

The surgery can be performed in a safe accredited private clinic, or at Markham Stouffville Hospital. The location of the surgery depends on patient preference, and the type of surgery to be performed.

How long can I expect my recovery to last?

Depending on the surgery involved, the initial recovery before one can return back to social activities and work ranges between one week up to 4 weeks.

How much pain can I expect from my procedure?

Every surgery has different levels of pain, and every individual experience pain differently. Generally most cosmetic surgery procedures will have some discomfort within a week, except for tummy tucks, in which the pain can last up to two weeks.

What kind of follow up will I require?

Most surgeries, will require follow ups 1 week, 4 weeks, 3 months and 1 year after surgery. Some require more, and some less depending on the surgery and the patient.

Are there any medical conditions that might exclude someone from plastic surgery?

Patients who have major heart or breathing problems, patients on blood thinners and smokers

How much scarring can I expect from my surgery?

Dr. Wallman and Dr. Kao strive to keep scars to a minimum or to hide them from view as best as possible. Most scars in the body heal well, with thin, flat white lines. Scarring can vary from individual to individual, depending on skin type and heredity. Some patients may develop spread, raised or itchy scars called Hypertrophic or Keloid scars. If this happens, there are products than can help to minimize them or improve their appearance in the long term. If you have a previous bad scar, or a genetic predisposition for bad scars, informing Dr. Kao or Dr. Wallman before the procedure can be helpful to try and prevent them from occuring.

How long will it be until I see the final result of the surgical process?

Most procedures are well healed within one month of the surgery, although the final result with scarring and residual swelling can take up to one to two years for the end result.

Will my results look natural or will I look like I've had cosmetic work done?

Unless a patient specifically asks for an excessively tight look, Dr. Kao and Dr. Wallman prefer a soft and natural look to make a patient look refreshed, rejuvenated and natural.

How much will my procedure cost?

The cost varies depending on the procedure and the individual patient. It is best to book a consultation with Dr. Wallman or Dr. Kao to discuss surgery specifically tailored to the needs of the patient and the cost involved.

What is included in the cost of my surgery?

The surgery, and all follow-up visits necessary to ensure an excellent outcome.

Is touch-up surgery included in the fee?

Generally, touch up surgery, if required, is decided between Dr. Kao or Dr. Wallman and the patient. Usually, any touch up surgery will be an extra fee.

Is any of the cost of cosmetic surgery covered by OHIP or medical insurance?

At times, cosmetic surgery can have a small reduction in the overall fee when combined with an OHIP covered procedure. Some individual medical plans from your work may cover a part of the hospital/surgical fee. This varies depending on the plan, and the patient should call their insurance broker for more clarification.

Is Financing Available?

Yes, there are various options including Medicard, a financing company for cosmetic surgery procedures. Another good option is to consider a Personal Line of Credit from your bank, if you qualify.

What can i do if I'm not happy with the results?

Open communication and discussion with Dr. Wallman or Dr. Kao is important to ensure that you have an outcome you are happy with. The follow-ups that occur up to one year and longer help to ensure that any issues can be discussed. If revision surgery is necessary or possible, this is generally done after one year from the surgery. There may be added cost to revision surgery depending on the situation.