FAQs

We hope the following of frequently asked questions and their answers, will help. And if you have a question not on the list, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 808-247-3737.

Am I a good candidate for plastic surgery?

The best candidates for plastic surgery are individuals in good general health who have reasonable expectations about their appearance. During your initial consultation, it is extremely important to be honest while discussing your goals and concerns so that Dr. Allen Strasberger can make an informed, realistic assessment about your candidacy for plastic surgery.

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What is the right age for plastic surgery?

There are a number of guidelines in place to help surgeons determine appropriate age limitations for plastic surgery procedures. However, many factors may influence the surgeon’s ultimate decision regarding your treatment, so it is best to speak personally with a qualified doctor about your goals.

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Is plastic surgery safe?

All surgical procedures involve risk. Selecting a qualified surgeon is the best way to reduce your chance of experiencing a complication. It is also important to follow all of your doctor’s pre- and post- operative instructions carefully to be sure that you are prepared for surgery and that your body is appropriately cared for after your procedure.

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How much does plastic surgery cost? Will my insurance cover the procedure?

Plastic surgery is a permanent investment in how you look and feel. Although the cost varies, most patients find that plastic surgery can be an affordable option. Cosmetic Surgery Hawaii accepts a number of payment methods and also provides financing through CareCredit®. Because plastic surgery is considered elective surgery, it is typically not covered by insurance.

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How much pain, recovery time, and scarring should I expect?

Every individual is different, and individual responses to plastic surgery may vary. Dr. Allen Strasberger can advise you of how much pain to expect and provide you with medication to minimize discomfort. He can also inform you about reasonable expectations for recovery time and scarring concerns for your procedure type during your consultation. I encourage you to look through our site and read about your specific surgery of interest and view our Gallery. We also have several links to more plastic surgery information if we did not provide the answer you were looking for.

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What about non-surgical options?

There are a number of non-surgical options that can help enhance your natural beauty or diminish the signs of aging. BOTOX® products, soft tissue Fillers, Chemical Peels, and other services may be used to help you achieve the youthful, attractive appearance you desire.

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Are there any products or behaviors I should limit to prepare for surgery?

There are a number of steps you can take to maximize your surgical results, including:

  • Discontinue smoking at least six weeks prior to surgery to avoid skin healing problems and serious medical complications following surgery.
  • Discontinue using aspirin or products with anti-coagulation properties at least 10 days prior to surgery to minimize the risk of unnecessary bleeding.
  • You want to be in the best health at the time of surgery.

See Patient Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions for more information.

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How should I prepare on the night before and the day of my procedure?

To prepare for your procedure, please observe the following guidelines on both the day before and day of your surgery:

  • It is important that you do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day prior to surgery.
  • You should shower with an antibacterial soap (e.g. Dial, Phisoderm), the day before surgery as well as the day of surgery.
  • Do not shave the surgical area or apply moisturizing lotion.
  • Wear minimal makeup on surgery day.
  • Wear loose fitting, button-front clothing. Leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
  • Arrive at the Kaneohe Surgical Suite promptly at your scheduled surgery time.

See Patient Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions for more information.

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What should I expect immediately after surgery?

After your surgery is complete, you will remain in recovery for at least one hour before your ride and caretaker are brought in and given post operative instructions. Limit you activities for the first 24 hours and begin taking the pain medications and antibiotics prescribed during your pre-operative appointment. Be sure to contact Dr. Allen Strasberger if you have any unusual symptoms or other concerns.

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When can I resume my normal activities?

  • Eating: It is not unusual to not feel very hungry after surgery, but it is best to take your medications with something in your stomach. Small amounts of clear, noncarbonated liquids and bland foods may be tolerated better after anesthesia. You may continue to adjust your diet after surgery as you feel comfortable.
  • Driving: You should avoid driving for at least one week following your procedure and you should never drive while taking pain medication or if pain limits your ability to move quickly. You will need someone to drive you on the day of surgery as well as the day of your first follow-up appointment.
  • Showering: If you have been instructed to leave your bandages in place you may only sponge bathe until your doctor removes the dressings. Do not take a bath if you have drains in place, and use only luke warm water for your first few showers after surgery. Make sure someone else is nearby to assist you if you feel lightheaded, and face away from the shower and allow the water to run over your shoulders. Dr. Allen Strasberger can inform you when it is appropriate to resume showering normally.
  • Exercising/Lifting: After surgery, you will be unable to exercise or perform heavy lifting for four to six weeks. You should restrict your activity to avoid prolonged swelling that can stretch the skin and avoid lifting objects over your head. Also, changes in blood pressure associated with exercise or strenuous activity can cause bleeding problems.

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What warning signs should I watch for in the days and weeks following surgery?

The following symptoms may indicate possible complications. Alert your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following:

  • Sudden increased pain in the area of surgery
  • Sudden persistent swelling at the surgical site
  • Numbness in any extremity
  • Fever greater than 101.5 degrees
  • Redness of incision or surgical area
  • Wound separation
  • Drainage or bleeding from the incision
  • Swelling or pain in the calf
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting
  • Inability to urinate after surgery
  • Any other unusual symptoms that concern you

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Call 808-247-3737 today or request your FREE consultation online now!