At Aesthetik Profile, Dr Carmen, Dr Kode and the team are committed to supporting you throughout each stage of your patient journey, from your first consultation through to your procedure and follow-up care.
Your Patient Journey Timeline
- First Consultation
- Cooling-Off Period
- Second Consultation
- Surgery Booking and Pre-Operative Preparation
- Surgery Day
- Immediate Recovery and Post-Operative Care
- Follow-Up Appointments
- Long-Term Recovery and Results Review
Am I ready for plastic surgery?
Many people consider plastic or cosmetic surgery for a range of personal reasons. However, as Dr Foad Nahai, a respected figure in the field of plastic surgery, has stated: “Forget about aesthetic, remember surgery.”
It is important to recognise that surgery is a medical procedure that involves careful planning and consideration. While it may assist in addressing specific concerns, all surgical procedures carry risks.
Generally, individuals in stable physical health, who do not smoke, have realistic expectations and a understanding of the risks and potential complications may be considered for plastic surgery.
During your consultation with your surgeon, your personal goals, concerns, and medical history will be carefully reviewed to assess whether surgery is suitable for your individual circumstances.
Booking your First consultation
To book a consultation with Dr Carmen Munteanu, a referral from your General Practitioner (GP) is required. A referral allows you to claim a portion of the consultation fee through Medicare and helps us understand your medical history.
Before your consultation, we ask that you complete your medical history form as accurately as possible. It’s also helpful to bring a list of any questions you have, along with any relevant scans, x-rays, or other medical records related to your condition or surgery.
What happens at the First Consultation?
Your surgeon (Dr Carmen or Dr Gary Kode) will discuss your medical history, your concerns and your goals. They will also discuss your surgical and non-surgical options including the risks and potential benefits. It is important to disclose all medications you are currently taking, as well as any previous medical conditions, procedures, or surgeries you have had. Relevant investigations, such as blood tests, ultrasounds, or mammograms, may also be arranged if required.
Smoking is known to affect healing and recovery after surgery. You will be asked about your smoking history, and your surgeon will discuss the importance of a period without smoking before and after any procedure.
Following your consultation, our Patient Coordinator will prepare a detailed fee estimate based on your treatment options. This will be sent to you after your appointment and will include information on how to proceed with a booking if you choose to move forward. Dr Carmen’s focus during the consultation is on discussing your goals and the treatment options available, rather than discussing fees.
Current medical regulations require a second consultation and a mandatory cooling-off period before surgery can be booked. This makes sure you have adequate time to review all the information provided and make a well-informed decision about your care.
Medical Board regulations now require a second consultation and a cooling off period prior to booking surgery. Between the first and second consultations, you will have time to consider all the information you have been given.
Cooling-Off Period and Second Consultation
Following your initial consultation, a mandatory cooling-off period applies before you can book your procedure. This time allows you to review your options, reflect on your decision and seek clarification about any concerns.
A second consultation will be scheduled before proceeding with surgery. This follow-up appointment provides an opportunity to revisit your questions, confirm your surgical plan, and receive additional information. You are also welcome to seek a second opinion during this period if desired.
Booking Your Surgery
If you choose to proceed with surgery after your consultations and once the required cooling-off period has ended, we will provide you with detailed information about your procedure. This includes what to expect on the day of surgery, an overview of the recovery process, and a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Preparing for surgery, both physically and mentally is an important part of your surgical journey. Understanding each step and knowing what is required of you during your recovery can assist in preparing for both the procedure and post-operative care.
A deposit of $1000 is required to secure your surgery date. Further details regarding payment and scheduling will be provided by our Patient Coordinator.
Preparing and Planning for your Surgery
Before your procedure, there are several steps that need to be taken of, including:
- Understanding your needs, expectations and motivation.
- Analysing the clinical aspects, along with your particular circumstances, anatomy, physiology, psychological aspects, support.
- Blood tests, specific preparation, procuring compression garments, making sure you have an appropriate support structure.
- Filling in the hospital paperwork, the informed consent, finding all the involved fees, appointments structure.
A pre-operative consultation at least 2 weeks prior to your surgery will be arranged to go over any final questions and to prepare for surgery, including the signing of paperwork and consents.
Pre-Surgery Preparation Checklist
Before your procedure, there are several steps you can take to prepare yourself. Being organised may help your recovery as it allows you to focus on your healing:
- Complete all required pre-operative investigations such as blood tests, scans, or imaging.
- Arrange for a support person to assist you after surgery, particularly in the first few days.
- Prepare your recovery space at home with essentials such as prescribed medications, comfortable clothing, compression garments if required, and supportive pillows.
- Discuss any medications, vitamins, or supplements with Dr Carmen, as some may need to be paused prior to surgery.
- Review your fasting instructions carefully and follow them diligently.
What happens on the day of your Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you will arrive at the hospital at your designated admission time. You must fast for at least six hours prior to your surgery, unless directed otherwise.
Dr Carmen currently operates at accredited facilities including:
- Epworth Eastern Private Hospital
- Mitcham Private Hospital
- Knox Private Hospital
- The Bays Private Hospital
- Peninsula Health.
All procedures are performed in accredited theatres, with the involvement of a consultant anaesthetist and trained nursing staff.
The duration of your hospital stay will depend on the procedure performed and your recovery progress. You may remain in hospital until pain is well managed, you are able to eat and drink and any surgical drains (if required) have been removed. In some cases, a longer hospital stay may be necessary, depending on the level of assistance required.
Before you leave the hospital, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions, emergency contact information, and your follow-up appointment details. You will also be provided with your surgeon’s direct contact information for any post-operative concerns.
Every person’s experience with surgery and recovery is different. While you will be given clear guidelines about recovery expectations, timelines, and potential risks, outcomes can vary.
It is important to follow the post-operative instructions provided, even if you are feeling well. Recovery milestones often reflect the adherence to these guidelines. Deviating from the recommended care plan may result in complications or delayed recovery.
“I cannot overemphasise the need for the necessary recovery time, especially for big procedures.”
Dr Carmen Munteanu
Post-Operative Follow-Up and Monitoring
Ongoing monitoring after your surgery is an important part of your care. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to check your healing progress and address any questions. These appointments are an opportunity for your surgeon and her team to review your recovery, discuss scar management where appropriate, and provide further guidance on activity levels and ongoing care.
The number of follow-up appointments may vary depending on your procedure and individual healing.
Patient Responsibility and Shared Decision-Making
Surgery involves both surgical experience and your participation throughout the recovery period. It is important to attend follow-up appointments, follow your post-operative care instructions and communicate openly about any concerns or unexpected symptoms.
Making an informed decision about surgery includes understanding the risks, likely outcomes, and your role in the process. Dr Carmen and her team are committed to supporting you through this process and encouraging open discussion at every step.
Optional Support Services
Depending on your needs, additional support services may be discussed during your consultations. These could include options such as scar care treatments or referrals to psychological support services if appropriate. These options are considered individually and offered where relevant.
