Q: Where will my procedure take place?

A: Your procedure will take place at the North Shore Center for Facial Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery^SM, an outpatient cosmetic surgical clinic. The center was expertly designed to enhance the patient experience: it features private consultation rooms, state-of-the-art operating rooms with the highest levels of technology and a well-appointed, staffed recovery facility providing a warm and safe environment for postoperative rest. The clinic offers the convenience and privacy that are hard to find in large, busy hospitals.

The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) has consistently awarded its Certificate of Accreditation to the center, recognizing our commitment to providing high-quality care, demonstrated by meeting AAAHC’s high standards. Rigorous inspections are carried out yearly to maintain the rating that pertains to safety and operational, management and sterilization protocols.

Q: What is the most common plastic surgery procedure?

A: According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the most frequently performed surgical procedure in the United States in 2008 was breast augmentation, followed by liposuction, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), nose recontouring (rhinoplasty) and tummy tucks (abdominoplasty). The most frequently performed nonsurgical procedure was using BOTOX^® Cosmetic for removing wrinkles on the forehead, laser hair removal, hyaluronic acid (including Juvéderm^® and Restylane^®), chemical peel and laser skin resurfacing.

Q: What is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon?

A: Board-certified cosmetic surgeons complete an approved educational training program and undergo an evaluation that includes written and oral exams to assess the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to provide quality patient care. A board of highly experienced examiners reviews the surgeon's cases for the past several years.

Q: What medications should I avoid before surgery?

A: During your preoperative scheduling session (about an hour), you will receive a personalized handbook ("Your Surgery Program") that lists medications and supplements to avoid for at least two weeks before and after surgery to enhance your recovery and speed the healing process. During your medical history analysis with the nurse, you will be asked to identify medications that you take. The nurse will advise you on what to continue and what to discontinue. If we ask you to discontinue a medication, Dr. Geroulis will contact your family physician for medical clearance.

Q: What do I have to do to ensure a good postoperative result?

A: A critical factor in patients' overall results and satisfaction is diligently following the recommendations in the handbook. It is imperative that you follow your surgeon's verbal instructions during your follow-up visits. It's a good idea to refrain from smoking, alcohol and vigorous activity for two weeks before and two weeks after surgery. Take all the necessary vitamins and supplements included in your surgery program outlined by your patient care consultant. Doing your research to identify and select a reputable, experienced surgeon with a skilled medical team is equally important in achieving excellent results.

Q: How long will my recovery take?