FAQ
1. Q: What does it mean for a plastic surgeon to be registered?
Answer:
In Malaysia, the Medical (Amendment) Act 2012 makes it a legal requirement for doctors who practice as specialists to have their names entered into the National Specialist Register (NSR, www.nsr.org.my). This is to ensure all practicing specialists to have proper training and recognized qualifications in oder to practice in their respective specialty fields. The main objective is to safeguard the safety and interests of the patients. Only medical practitioners listed on the National Specialist Register are recognized as specialists and can practice in the registered specialty. This requirement applies to all medical specialists including plastic surgeons.
2. Q: How do I know whether the doctor is a registered plastic surgeon?
Answer:
Go to http://www.nsr.org.my Then go to Specialist Search. Type in the doctor’s name or other particulars. Alternatively, in the Field of Practice choose Plastic Surgery. If the doctor is a plastic surgeon, his/her name and details will appear in the list.
3. Q: What is the difference between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery?
Answer:
Plastic surgery as a surgical specialty comprises both cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. Both seek to restore and enhance the appearance and function of the body. Cosmetic surgery aims to reshape normal body structures to improve and enhance the appearance and form. Examples of cosmetic surgery are facelift, breast augmentation and liposuction. Reconstructive surgery aims to repair and restore abnormal body structures caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumours, and other disease processes. Examples of reconstructive surgery are cleft lip and palate repair, breast reconstruction after mastectomy and reconstruction after burn injuries.
4. Q: Does medical insurance cover plastic surgery procedures?
Answer:
Cosmetic surgery usually is not covered by medical insurance. Reconstructive surgery usually is covered by most medical insurance policies, but the coverage for specific procedures and levels of coverage may vary among different insurance companies.
5. Q: What is involved in a plastic surgery consultation?
Answer:
When you come for a consultation, you will meet with our plastic surgeon. The surgeon will discuss with you regarding your concerns and the goals that you wish to achieve. The surgeon will go through your medical history, perform a relevant clinical examination, and discuss surgical options available to achieve your goals. If you wish to proceed with the surgery, we will proceed to schedule and book the procedure. You are encouraged to prepare a list of questions to ask the surgeon during the consultation in order to better understand your condition and the surgical options that are available.
6. Q: What about the safety of plastic surgery?
Answer:
The surgeon will review your health history, perform a relevant examination, and order investigations if necessary to assess whether you are fit for surgery. Additionally, it is imperative to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions and thoroughly discuss and inform any pre-existing medical conditions to minimize the possibility of complications. As with all surgical procedures, some level of risk is possible. Our medical staff is highly trained and has many hours of surgical experience. We will do everything possible to minimize complications during your surgery.
7. Q: How do I prepare myself for plastic surgery?
Answer:
Be prepared physically and mentally. Be sure you understand and follow the pre-operative and post-operative instructions. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications. Stop all supplements that contain vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during surgery. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs in which ingredients are unknown have to stop as well. Stop medication that increases bleeding during surgery such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medicine before you stop them. On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing and do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body. Be relaxed and have a good night’s sleep before the surgery.