Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About Preparing for Plastic Surgery

As you begin your search for the right procedure and the right surgeon to help you achieve your goals, you will want to find answers to basic questions like what factors to consider when choosing a surgeon and what steps you need to take to prepare for plastic surgery.

How do I pick a well qualified plastic surgeon?

Choosing your plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you will make regarding your procedure. When you are researching surgeons, make sure to select one who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certification ensures that your surgeon has met stringent requirements in training and practice.

Dr. Fortes has been with the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery for over 20 years. Dr. Fortes is double board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and by the American Board of Surgery. He has had one of the most extensive training periods of 8 years in surgical residency, including 3 years of specialization in plastic surgery at Northwestern Medical Center in Chicago.

Am I a Good Candidate for Surgery?

Although being in good general health and prepared emotionally and financially for plastic surgery are good indicators that you may be ready for surgery, determining whether you are a good candidate for plastic surgery requires an individual consultation with a Dr. Fortes. We treat each patient as the unique individual they are and fully discuss your goals and options to help you determine if plastic surgery is the right choice for you right now.

Should I Quit Smoking Before Surgery?

Yes. You should stop smoking before surgery. It is not only good for your overall health to give up cigarettes, it will also aid your recovery from surgery. If you are a smoker, it is important to be honest with your plastic surgery about your smoking habits because smoking can have such a significant effect on your recovery.

Is plastic surgery outpatient or inpatient?

Most plastic surgery procedures are outpatient procedures. However, some cases do require an overnight stay, especially if there are complications. Dr. Fortes might recommend an overnight stay at our extended care facility. In addition, we offer a number of private recovery accommodations through our association with multiple premier and reputable hotels. We have special hotel rates for all our patients.

How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

No breast implant is intended to last for a lifetime. However, each patient’s body is unique. Your implants may last for a significantly shorter or longer period of time. You may decide to have implants removed or replaced based on your personal preferences as you age.

Where will my surgery be performed?

Dr. Fortes Plastic Surgery is proud to offer you premier care within the sleek and spacious setting of our private surgery center. We adhere to the most stringent safety protocols. From state-of-the art equipment in our 4 operating rooms to highly trained staff and tranquil recovery rooms, every detail of our surgery center is designed to maximize your comfort and safety. The surgery center is located at our Kimberley office. (like to location tab and photo of location)

How do I know that the surgery location is equipped for my safety and comfort?

The Surgicenter for ACPS is certified by the American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF). This nationally recognized organization ensures that surgical facilities meet rigid guidelines with regard to physician credentials and life safety issues.

Dr. Fortes’s Houston Cosmetic surgical facility provides:

Highly trained board-certified physician anesthesiologists administer anesthesia and monitor patients throughout the entire surgical procedure. They remain available for support throughout your stay.
Innovational patient monitoring equipment during anesthesia.
2:1 patient care from registered nurses and our skilled medical assistants for added support.
Home care visits are provided by a highly trained medical assistant the day after a patient is discharged from our surgery center. This professional monitors your condition and provides you and your caretaker with additional support and education for your postoperative care.
Highly scrutinized AAAASF sterilization techniques.
Equipment certification per strict AAAASF requirements.
Emergency life support and resuscitation equipment.

How long will recovery take?

Each procedure has a different level of recovery. However, you can plan on needing several days of assistance to make sure that you give your body the time it needs to heal. In addition it should take several weeks before you are allowed to return to “vigorous” activities like exercise. We will give you an educational and informational packet that will detail the needs of your specific surgery.

What Help Should I Arrange After Surgery?

After any type of surgery, it is important to have help. With surgical procedures, like breast augmentation, tummy tuck, or breast reconstruction, your recovery will take weeks and you will have restrictions on your movement. You should enlist the help of a close friend or family member to take you home from surgery.

How Do I Ease Back Into My Routine After Surgery?

It is important to listen to your body and take the time you need to rest and heal during your recovery. We will assist you in this decision making process. For many women, taking time off from work and daily responsibilities is difficult, but don’t let those obligations push you to return to work and routine before you are ready.

Is there any insurance that covers plastic surgery?

Unfortunately, elective cosmetic surgery is not usually covered in most health insurance plans because it is optional and not usually considered as a medical necessity to maintain the quality of life or body functioning.

Do you offer financing?

For the convenience of our patients, we offer several payment options for our surgical and nonsurgical procedures and products. We accept all major credit cards and cashiers’ checks, and the Care Credit patient financing program.

Do you have more questions about plastic surgery? We’d love to answer them!

Schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Fortes today.
Please call the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery at 713-799-9999. We welcome patients from around the world.