Plastic surgery isn’t as taboo or stigmatized as it used to be. But for some who are seriously considering it, it can still be a difficult topic to talk about. That’s why we set an appointment with Dr. Lutgardo “Jun” Caparas, plastic surgeon and the President and Medical Director of Zi Institute, to ask him things you need to know if you want to get plastic surgery.
1. You'll need to manage your expectations.
During your first consultation, your doctor will evaluate your plan’s doability and how you both can work towards a realistic goal. “We pride ourselves on being honest and transparent with our patients because we really want the best for them,” says Dr. Caparas. “We carefully consider their expectations, [like if] they want a specific cup size or look. [Then, we] explain to them the factors to consider, such as if their skin can take the cup size or if their expected look for the rhinoplasty is doable after the initial assessment and consultation.”
2. You’ll need to save a lot of money.
After all, plastic surgery is a serious medical procedure not to be taken lightly. At Zi Institute, a rhinoplasty can cost anywhere between P85,000 to P120,000, a breast augmentation can cost around P150,000, liposuction can cost around P130,000, and blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, can cost around P45,000. It's important to note that these prices are just approximations, and the final price will depend on the in-person assessments.
3. You’ll need to check your surgeon’s qualifications.
Research on their credentials and specialties. One key credential is that he or she is fully trained and recognized by The Philippine Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (PAPRAS), which is the society recognized by the Philippine College of Surgeons.
4. There are different ways to do one procedure.
Which way will depend on your goal and the assessments done during your initial consultation. “For rhinoplasties, my technique is [to use] either a silicon implant or Gore-Tex because this method retains [the implant’s] shape, unlike the usual cartilage that can get warped over time. When it comes to breast augmentations, there are different approaches, such as the breast fold incision, areolar incision, or armpit approach,” explains Dr. Caparas.
5. Your doctor will prepare you the best way they can.
Again, plastic surgery is still a medical procedure, that’s why working closely with a credible surgeon is key to its success. Dr. Caparas explains that hematoma, seroma, scars, and capsular contracture are common risks of plastic surgery and that taking less invasive approaches can mitigate them. “Ask as many questions as possible. We appreciate these questions because we want you to clearly understand what you will be undergoing,” said Dr. Caparas.
6. There’s a lot of prep work before the actual surgery.
“These include tests on blood chemistry, complete blood count, blood clotting mechanism, chest x-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), and, of course, an RT-PCR test to ensure that everything is ready,” says Dr. Caparas.
7. You’ll need to schedule it wisely.
Recovery usually takes around a month. At Zi Institute, your surgeon will frequently check in with you and guide you at each step of the recovery period. He or she may also prescribe you medicines throughout this period.
8. You’ll need to visit your surgeon after the procedure is done.
Your first visit is the suture removal and check-up of the site you were operated on. This takes place five to ten days after your procedure. Your second check-up usually follows a week after. The first two weeks post-surgery are important, so be sure to stay in touch with your doctor.
9. You’ll need to properly collaborate with your surgeon.
“We ask patients as many questions as we need to, but showing us a photo of the results you want also works,” Dr. Caparas advises. “We also have our own recommendations. Our vision really is to enhance your beauty, that's why we work with patients closely to help them achieve their goals. We really want to collaborate with every patient by thoroughly explaining what's doable after an in-person assessment.”
10. On top of excitement, you’ll also feel nervous.
“After all, it is a big day, so our patients usually [feel] nervous before we start,” Dr. Caparas shares. “Afterwards, they're filled with happiness. Sort of like, ‘OMG, it finally happened!’ while also feeling a little bit of pain from the surgery”. You will also have a debriefing session after the procedure where you and your doctor can talk about what you might feel and what to expect in the next few days.
Schedule a consultation with Zi Institute via Messenger. For more information on Zi Institute, visit its official website and follow its Facebook and Instagram accounts. For more information on Dr. Jun Caparas, follow his Facebook and Instagram accounts.
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