FAQs (frequently asked questions)

Who is a candidate for plastic surgery? The best plastic surgery candidate is someone with realistic expectations and an understanding of the limitations set by medicine, technology, and each patient's own body. Good candidates have a strong self-image, and well-developed reason for pursuing a plastic surgery procedure. They are looking for improvement of a physical trait, knowing that while this positive change may enhance their self-image, it will not change people's perception of them.

Is there a "right" age to pursue plastic surgery? There isn't any overarching rule as to the right age for plastic surgery. The appropriateness of a certain procedure should be determined more on a case by case basis, looking at the individual's unique body type and aging process. There are age tendencies for certain procedures. For example, it is infrequent that a face lift is performed on a patient under the age of 30. Other procedures, such as an arm lift may be performed on older patients due to skin losing elasticity due to age, or younger patients due to dramatic weight loss.

Is plastic surgery covered by insurance? When the plastic surgery procedure is being performed for cosmetic reasons, insurance will not be involved. When the surgery is necessary for reconstructive purposes it may be partially or fully covered by insurance.

What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery? Cosmetic plastic surgery is performed to enhance or change a healthy, normal, functioning part of the body. Only the patient's desire for physical improvement necessitates cosmetic plastic surgery. Reconstructive surgery is intended to correct a physical abnormality caused by a birth defect, disease or tumor or physical trauma. The goal may be to restore function or to achieve physical normality.

Where is plastic surgery performed? In our practice, procedures are performed in a surgical suite located within our office building located on the campus of Hackensack University Medical Center, or in the main operating room of the medical center for those patients who may wish to stay overnight. Patients may also request their procedures to be performed at a number of private facilities which are independent, free-standing, New Jersey approved surgical centers where each individual requirement are handled on a unique basis, including in most cases complimentary transportation. Dr. Ritota does not maintain any financial interest in any of these facilities at which he operates.

How much pain is involved in plastic surgery? Each plastic surgery procedure carries a different level of discomfort, and requires different methods of anesthetizing. The patient's preferences for safety and comfort, as well as personal pain threshold, can help determine what type of anesthesia will be used. Minor, non-invasive surgeries might involve a topical anesthetic, while minor invasive surgeries may call for local anesthetic or local combined with sedation. In more involved surgical procedures, general anesthesia is usually used. Each patient will tolerate pain postoperatively in a different way, and we consider this. While some patients may describe the pain as an ache, others experience greater discomfort. Appropriate pain medications are prescribed for the postoperative patients, and these help minimize discomfort. Most facial cosmetic operations have minimal discomfort postoperatively.

Is plastic surgery outpatient or inpatient? Most plastic surgery procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. In some cases, usually when the surgery is very extensive or complications arise, an overnight stay might be required.

Can I finance my plastic surgery procedure? Most plastic surgeons work with patient financing groups and will provide you with an application to fill out at the consultation. Many banks provide financing for elective procedures as well. Plastic surgery is often financed, which has helped it become more accessible to everyone.

How helpful is Liposuction to get rid of cellulite? Liposuction is a treatment by which fat cells are surgically removed. Many people think Liposuction will reduce cellulite. Liposuction does not remove fat from the areas where cellulite exists, therefore it does not get rid of cellulite. In fact, because liposuction leaves lax skin, cellulite can be more apparent than before.

How long is the recuperative period and when can I return to work? The length of time it takes to recuperate after plastic surgery varies depending on the person and the procedure performed. Most patients will require assistance for the first few days. Then most patients are able to care for themselves, but may still need assistance if they have small children to care for. Several weeks before, patients are able to resume basic daily activities such as housework and going to work, but will need to be cautious of strenuous activity and exercise. It may be a matter of months before a patient can return to all normal activities. These precautions will be discussed with each patient during the consultation and preoperative visit.

When can I resume regular exercise? The time a patient resumes regular exercises varies based on the procedure performed. All patients are encouraged to start a slow walking routine one or two weeks postoperative. Regular aerobic and more vigorous activities are not allowed for several weeks in order to decrease the risks of bleeding, swelling, and bruising.