Traveling for a procedure is more common than ever. With the right preparation, you can have a smooth, stress-free experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for your out-of-town cosmetic surgery procedure.

1. Research Your Surgeon

Before committing to any procedure, you should feel completely confident in your surgeon and the practice. Take time to research the clinic, read patient testimonials, and look through before-and-after galleries to see the results (RealSelf is an excellent resource for this). Dr. Anand D. Patel at Visage Facial Plastic Surgery in the Greater Milwaukee area is renowned for his specialization in facial cosmetic procedures such as facelifts, eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty.

2. Prepare For Your Virtual Consultation

Most plastic surgery clinics offer virtual consultations for out-of-town patients. The consultation is your chance to discuss your goals, ask questions, and get personalized procedure recommendations from your surgeon. At Visage Facial Plastic Surgery, we start with a pre-consult phone call, followed by a virtual Zoom consultation with Dr. Patel.

What To Expect During Your Consultation With Dr. Patel:

• Review of your medical history and current health status.
• Discussion of your aesthetic goals.
• Photos for before-and-after planning.
• Detailed explanation of the procedure(s) and recovery.

3. Planning Your Travel

Once you've booked your surgery, make sure to arrange your:

• Travel Dates: Aim to arrive in the area at least 1-2 days before the surgery to give yourself time to settle in and meet with your surgeon for a final pre-operative visit.

• Accommodation: Look for nearby hotels that cater to out-of-town patients. Our Out Of Town Patients page has recommendations for short term and long term stays.

• Travel Companion: Travel with a reliable family member or friend who will be able to accompany and assist you before and after your surgery.

• Transportation: Determine how you will get to and from the clinic on the day of your surgery and any post-operative follow-up appointments. Your travel companion may need to rent a car or arrange for transportation through your hotel.

4. Pre-Surgery Preparations

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, there are several things you can do to prepare:

• Follow Pre-Op Instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions, such as avoiding smoking, certain medications/supplements, and alcohol before surgery. Please follow these instructions to avoid serious complications.

• Pack Smart: When packing for your trip, include comfortable clothing, any prescribed medications, toiletries, and items you might need in your hotel during your recovery.

5. Post-Surgery Care

One of the key elements of out-of-town plastic surgery is planning your post-op care. Here at Visage Facial Plastic Surgery, we provide comprehensive follow-up care, even for those who travel from afar.

• Post-Op Appointment: You may need to stay in the area for up to a week post-surgery for check-ups. If you are booking a flight, be sure to plan accordingly.

• Stay Nearby: Staying at one of our recommended hotels minimizes any stress from travel and allows you to attend your follow-up appointments without issue.

• Recovery Time: Understand that recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery you’re undergoing. While some procedures may require only a few days of rest, others may need longer periods of recuperation. Factor in ample recovery time before you plan to travel home.

While undergoing facial plastic surgery isn’t exactly a vacation, it’s worth it when you can trust your results to a top plastic surgeon. Whether you’re traveling across the state or across the country, Visage Facial Plastic Surgery is committed to providing exceptional care and results for every patient, no matter where they come from. Ready to take the next step? Schedule your phone consultation today, and let us help you achieve the facial aesthetic you’ve always wanted!