Salt Lake City and Ogden, Utah-area Cosmetic Surgery – Frequently Asked Questions

Although our friendly, knowledgeable staff is more than happy to answer any questions you may have, we have noticed many people have similar questions. For your convenience we have compiled the following frequently asked questions. If you have additional queries or concerns, contact our Bountiful office — serving Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Utah cosmetic surgery patients statewide — and arrange a consultation with our skilled plastic surgeon, Dr. J. Gregory Kjar.

General Questions:

Questions about Your Procedure:

Questions about the Recovery Process:

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General Questions

What happens after I schedule an office visit?

At your initial office visit, Dr. J. Gregory Kjar and his staff will discuss your needs or desires for cosmetic surgery, and will inform you about different procedures or options. We will take pre-op photos, and schedule your surgery and further office visits. Typically, you will have two office visits before surgery, and two or more follow-up visits, depending on your procedure. All of the office visits are included in the quoted cost of the procedure.

Can I be sure my cosmetic surgery will be confidential?

Absolutely. Not only is Dr. Kjar bound by law to keep the details of your medical records confidential, but he and his staff are also very sensitive to the personal nature of cosmetic surgery and body image, and will keep your visits private. It is up to you whether you choose to tell your family and friends about your procedure.

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What kind of anesthesia is used and what are its risks?

Most cosmetic surgery procedures are performed with general anesthetic. This excludes small, superficial procedures such as mole removal. General anesthesia always carries risks, but these risks are no greater in plastic surgery than in any other surgical procedure. General anesthetics are administered at the surgical center by licensed Anesthesiologists. For more information about anesthesia and its risks, contact our Salt Lake City and Ogden, Utah-area cosmetic surgery office.

What are the risks of cosmetic surgery?

Plastic surgery carries the same risks as other surgical procedures. Infection, excessive bleeding or scarring, and skin, muscle or nerve injury are always possible. These complications are rare and often correctable, but you must understand them before undergoing surgery.

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Are breast implants dangerous?

Both saline and silicone gel breast implants are FDA-approved. Until only recently, silicone implants were banned. However, in November of 2006 the FDA declared silicone implants to be safe and effective. If you would like to know more about breast augmentation with implants, contact our offices and arrange a consultation with Dr. Kjar.

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What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is elective, meaning that it would not be deemed necessary for your physical health by an insurance company. You choose to have the surgery, and you pay for it out of pocket. Reconstructive surgery is deemed necessary by your insurance company, such as in the case of accident or illness, and is paid for by insurance.

Cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries also have different goals. For patients who have experienced a birth defect or a tragic accident, reconstructive surgery can offer hope for a more normal life. As the American Society of Plastic Surgeons explains, "Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body, caused by birth defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma or injury, infection, tumors, or disease. It is generally performed to improve function, but may also be done to approximate a normal appearance."

Dr. Kjar performs many reconstructive surgeries, including post-mastectomy http://www.docshop.com/education/dermatology/facial/blue-light/, scar repair, and cleft lip and palate repair. Our Bountiful office serves Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Utah cosmetic surgery patients statewide. Contact our plastic surgeon, Dr. J. Gregory Kjar, to arrange a consultation.

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Does Dr. Kjar perform surgery for traumatic injuries?

Yes, Dr. Kjar does perform trauma surgery, and has done many of these procedures in the past. When a patient has experienced a traumatic injury, hospital doctors or the patient may request Dr. Kjar's services at the hospital. Because plastic surgeons specialize in careful cosmetic procedures, they are sometimes asked to sew or close wounds to allow for the best possible cosmetic healing. If you have a wound or scar you are unhappy with from a past injury, or even a birth defect, you may also consult with Dr. Kjar to find out how he might help improve or diminish the appearance of this area.

Can multiple procedures be performed at the same time?

Yes. Depending on the procedures and the length of time they require, we often perform multiple procedures in the same surgery. Although there is an increased risk when performing multiple procedures on various areas of the body, Dr. Kjar will determine whether it will be safe to combine procedures at the time of consultation.

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How much does cosmetic surgery cost?

Most of our procedures range between about $3,000 and $10,000. When you come for your initial office consultation, you can get a better estimate for the cost of your procedure.

Will my insurance pay for cosmetic surgery?

Only if your surgery is reconstructive (see above). Cosmetic surgeries are not covered, and must be paid out of pocket.

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Am I too old or too young for cosmetic surgery?

There are certain ages when cosmetic surgery is not advisable. For patients younger than mid-20s, procedures may not be effective because their bodies are still developing. For patients who are significantly advanced in age, procedures may not be safe or affective, because of the decreased strength and flexibility of skin, muscle, and tissue. However, there are exceptions. Some procedures, such as ear-pinning, can even be performed on young children. It is best to bring your individual case to Dr. Kjar and consult with him about your options.

Can I come from out of town for cosmetic surgery?

Definitely. Dr. Kjar often deals with out-of-town patients. The office will help you coordinate the details of the timing of your visits. Please contact us for suggestions for lodging in local areas.

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Why is the surgery performed at Mountain West Surgical Center?

In 2004, Dr. Kjar closed his 20 year-plus independent practice to open Mountain West Surgical Center as one of its founders. The opening of the surgical center is the realization of years of effort on Dr. Kjar's part. It is a brand new facility, where Dr. Kjar is confident that patients will have the best care and treatment.

Questions about Your Procedure

What are my pre-op and post-op instructions?

At your pre-op appointment with the doctor, you will be given pre-op and post-op instructions specific to your procedure. You will generally have more important and more specific instructions for post-op than for pre-op. Read and follow both carefully, and be sure to follow any other instructions the doctor gives you. Pre-op instructions might include stopping certain medications, taking a certain pre-op medication, washing your skin with an anti-bacterial soap, or buying certain items to have available at home for your recovery. Get a good night's sleep, and relax! Post-op instructions will include the important guidelines and precautions you need to care for your swelling, bruising, and muscles. Following these instructions is crucial to a healthy and speedy healing process after cosmetic surgery.

Can I print my medical forms in advance?

Yes. Please do. You can print your forms right here, and fill them out before your appointment. This will save you time in the office. You will need all three forms. Click on each form to print it.

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Will my procedure be out-patient or in-patient?

Most of Dr. Kjar's procedures are out-patient. After your cosmetic surgery, you will be moved to a recovery room where you will sleep until the anesthetic wears off. Nurses will attend you as necessary. When you are feeling well enough, you can leave the hospital with the friend or family member who is with you. There is no need to stay over night, but you should also not plan on driving yourself home!

How long does cosmetic surgery take?

The actual cosmetic surgery can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the procedures. Factoring in pre- and post-op needs, you should plan on being at the surgical center for several hours at least. Obviously, this excludes small procedures such as skin or mole treatments that don't require general anesthetic. For additional information, contact our Salt Lake City and Ogden, Utah-area cosmetic surgery practice.

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How long does recovery take?

With most procedures, you will be feeling well enough to return to all your normal activities within a few weeks. However, swelling and bruising often take three to six months to disappear entirely. You should realize that it may take several months to see the full, desired results of your procedure. For all the facts about recovery, visit our patient information page.

Are my soreness and recovery symptoms typical?

Generally, anything mild to moderate is normal. Even several weeks after your cosmetic surgery, it is common to feel pain, soreness, some bleeding, and skin sensitivity in the area of your procedure. Nausea is common after the anesthetic, and in response to the pain medication. Dr. Kjar will instruct you as to what to expect. However, if you are experiencing excessive bleeding, pain or soreness unmitigated by the prescribed pain medication, fever, vomiting, or any other symptoms that seem alarming to you, you may have a complication. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact Dr. Kjar's office.

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How long will my scars show?

Scars from your procedure will always be present on your body, but they will fade with time. Dr. Kjar will always make incisions in the most inconspicuous places possible for the procedure. Often, even the patient doesn't see them after time. Feel free to ask the doctor where your scars will be, as well as how large or dark they will be.

Contact Dr. J. Gregory Kjar’s Bountiful office — serving Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Utah cosmetic surgery patients statewide — for more information or if you would like to schedule a consultation with our skilled team.

Questions about the Recovery Process

How much should this be hurting?

All patients experience some pain after cosmetic surgery, but this should be controlled with prescribed pain medication. Be diligent about applying hot and cold treatments as advised by Dr. Kjar. After the first couple of days, your pain should decrease slowly but steadily. If you feel you're in excessive pain, don't hesitate to call Dr. Kjar's office and discuss your situation with them.

Can I shower?

Generally, you may shower 24 to 48 hours after an operation. However, if your surgery requires you to wear a drain, you might have to wait 24 hours after it is removed before you can shower.

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Do my stitches dissolve, or will they have to be removed?

Depending on the treated area, Dr. Kjar may use either internal or external sutures. Most internal sutures dissolve and require no further attention. External incisions will require non dissolvable sutures that can be removed easily within 5 to 14 days.

When will the swelling go down?

Cold treatments will help reduce swelling during the first day or two after surgery. Your swelling should reduce significantly within the first week, and it probably won't be noticed by other people after a couple of weeks. The small amounts of swelling that accompany long-term healing may be present for months, but probably won't be noticeable. Bruises should be gone within two to three weeks. For additional questions, contact Dr. Kjar’s Salt Lake City and Ogden, Utah-area cosmetic surgery practice.

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Can I go back to work?

Most people don't need to miss work for more than a week. However, if your job includes a lot of physical activity, you may need to wait up to three weeks. As always, your recovery time depends on your procedure. Dr. Kjar will craft an individualized postoperative plan tailored to your procedure and your medical situation.

What about physical activity?

Most physical activity, such as exercise or sexual activity, can be resumed about three weeks after surgery. Several procedures carry restrictions as to how much you can lift after surgery, and you should definitely follow Dr. Kjar’s orders if this applies to you so that you don't interrupt your healing process or cause injury.

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How long should I stay in town?

We're happy to have patients come from out of town for cosmetic surgery procedures. Generally, we'd like to have you stay in town for a week, so that you can recover and we can check your progress. Even if you're feeling fine, it is important for Dr. Kjar to be able to take a look at your incisions, swelling, bruising, etc., to make sure everything looks good. If you feel you have extenuating circumstances, feel free to discuss the timeline for your particular procedure with Dr. Kjar's office. When you do head back home, remember that it may be uncomfortable to sit for long periods in a car or plane, and you'll need to get up and walk frequently. Also remember that after some procedures, you would not be able to lift your own bags, or would be on pain medication that would preclude you from driving. You should definitely have someone with you for help.

If you have additional questions or concerns, contact plastic surgeon J. Gregory Kjar’s office — serving Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Utah cosmetic surgery patients statewide — and arrange a consultation.

Contact our state-of-the-art Bountiful facility — serving Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Utah cosmetic surgery patients statewide — if you have additional questions or if you would like to arrange a consultation with Dr. J. Gregory Kjar.





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Premier Plastic Surgery
Group of Utah, LLC.
1551 South Renaissance Towne Drive,
Suite #360
Bountiful, Utah 84010

Phone: (801) 295-9105
Fax: (801) 295-9264

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