FAQs

When should I consider cosmetic surgery?

A good time to consider any cosmetic work (either surgical or non-surgical) is when you start to look tired but you don’t feel tired. This varies in people, but often people notice aging around the eyes and mouth first. This begins in the late 30s and early 40s.

Will I look like myself following surgery?

Yes. Our practice philosophy is to just restore the face to what it was when you were younger. We lift the face rather than pull it, so a relaxed, refreshed result is achieved.

What kind of sedation do you use?

We use local anesthetic with sedation 99 percent of the time, which is the same sedation used when getting a colonoscopy.

How much does each procedure cost?

Each procedure is uniquely tailored to the patient’s needs and goals and the prices vary due to which procedures will be performed. Prices are discussed during personal consultations.

Will I need someone to drive me home?

You will need someone to take you home and stay with you for 24-48 hours following an outpatient surgical procedure. For non-surgical outpatient procedures (such as Botox or Restylane) you are free to drive yourself home.

Where are surgical procedures performed?

We work at two top outpatient surgical centers, located nearby.

My husband/wife/companion is against me having surgery since friends have had procedures done and no longer look like themselves. How can I convince them that this is my decision and that they should feel comfortable?

We suggest you bring in anyone to look at our extensive photo gallery (or visit our online photos) or we can arrange for you to speak to some former patients. This often relieves any doubt or concerns among family members.

If I have Restylane™ or collagen will my lips look like Goldie Hawn in “First Wives Club” or like those other Hollywood actresses with giant lips?

No, we work with each patient to create young, full lips and go for a natural versus overdone look.

Can you get rid of spots on my face? Do I need to stay in the house after the procedure?

We remove age spots with a system called the Intense Pulse and Light (Prolite) System. This is not a laser, and does not prevent you from any activities, including wearing makeup. The intense pulsed light system lightens the age spots on the face and hands and involves no downtime at all.

How long do these operations last?

It depends on the procedure. Surgical procedures last longer, often for years, while non-surgical procedures such as Restylane™ and Botox™ injections require return visits.

How painful are the procedures?

Our goal is to keep pain to a minimum. Our practice believes in keeping patients comfortable during and after procedures and we tell people to expect a minimum amount of discomfort. 

How soon will I be able to go out in public after my surgical procedure? Can I wear makeup?

Makeup can be worn one week to 10 days post-op, depending on the surgery. Going out in public is a personal decision, as there may be bruising and swelling.

If you don’t want people to know you are having work done, you may need to stay out of sight from one to three weeks. If you are not concerned with people seeing you, you can go out three to five days after your surgery, usually wearing sunglasses. We have many great excuses for why you have bruising and swelling—just ask!

Gigi Wolk

Gigi Wolk, Patient Liaison

Ask Gigi

If you are considering surgery, or feel you have questions that need answers before your consultation, or need to determine if you are a candidate for surgery, please email Gigi for a confidential reply.