Surgical FAQs

Will surgery make me look plastic and "fake?"

We've all seen examples of plastic surgery, botox, or any other procedure gone awry (often, ironically, in the celebrity population). At our Evansville, Indiana office, Dr. Paik recognizes that while you may want to recapture your youthful glow, you want to do it in a way that still makes you look like you. Toward that end, he uses his expertise to enhance your appearance while maintaining your unique look. Some of the best compliments our patients receive are, "You look great! Are you doing something different with your hair?" "What skin cream did you start using?" or even "You must have just come back from vacation!"

Is facial plastic surgery safe?

Safety is the primary concern of both our patients and staff at our Evansville, Indiana office. All surgery in any field includes certain risks, but with all of our procedures, the chance of significant complication is very low. Dr. Paik will make sure that you're fully aware of any risks and address any other concerns you may have regarding your facial plastic surgery. He operates only in accredited surgery facilities and has facial plastic surgery hospital privileges.

What are my options for post-surgical/recovery care?

Though you may need a small support group to assist in specific, minor tasks, the majority of patients can recover at home quite comfortably. Dr. Paik will take into consideration the intensity of your surgery, your personal preferences, and medical history, in recommending any more attentive care, such as a prolonged hospital stay, visiting nurse, or aftercare facility.

What will the pain be like after facial plastic surgery?

Like with any surgical procedure, some discomfort is typical, and should be expected. If pain medication is needed following the procedure, Dr. Paik will discuss your options with you and provide the best solution. Many patients find that, following the procedure, it takes only a few days before over the counter pain medications are sufficient in handling any residual discomfort.

How soon will I be able to continue my normal day-to-day activities?

Though this will obviously depend on the extent of the procedure being performed, the general rule is no work for one to two weeks after minor surgery, and two to three weeks for more extensive surgery or multiple procedures. Any strenuous physical activity should be avoided during the postoperative period, and any further instructions will be provided by your physician.

What if I don't feel ready for surgery? Do I have other options?

We recognize that facial plastic surgery can feel like a big step, but don't worry! To address the issues you seek to correct, there are now a large variety of non-surgical options to achieve the effect you want. Several of the options are listed under the "non-surgical" heading above, or Dr. Paik would be happy to discuss them with you in person.

Some of the non-surgical options are likewise temporary, if you're just looking to try out facial plastic surgery and see how you like it. Dermal fillers and chemical peels are among these options, and can be done in a few hours with essentially no recovery time. Don't let the daunting idea of a "permanent change" that you're not quite ready for stop you from achieving the enhanced appearance and natural beauty you seek to recapture.

Is my surgeon qualified?

Dr. Young Paik is a double board-certified surgeon who is also a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery. His surgical experience includes a fellowship at Mercy Facial Plastic Surgery and University of Missouri under the tutelage of Dr. Keith LaFerriere, an internationally recognized leader in the field of facial plastic surgery. He has published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, The Bulletin, Ear Nose Throat Journal, and has given presentations at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting as well as the Midwest Head and Neck Cancer Consortium, among a myriad of other publications and presentations. Dr. Paik maintains a collection of before-and-after photos. Due to patient confidentiality, these may only be presented to you by request at your consultation. Please consult the "Meet Dr. Paik" section for more information.

How do I get ready for facial plastic surgery?

Your surgeon will go over the pre-surgery requirements when you schedule your procedure, but some general rules are: Take a daily multi-vitamin (though check and make sure that it doesn't contain more that 30 IU of Vitamin E). Stop taking Vitamin E and other herbal supplements two weeks before surgery. In order to increase blood supply to the healing areas you should stop smoking as soon as possible before surgery. Use sunscreen, hats, and other measures to limit sun exposure. Stop taking anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin two weeks prior to surgery. And complete any planned weight loss to within approximately 10 pounds of the weight you will maintain.

How much should I expect to pay?

Facial plastic surgery has moved out of the "elite" class of commodities and is now an option within the grasp of the average-income household. Depending on the extent and specifics of the procedure you're after, your price will vary, though many procedures Dr. Paik performs are now covered under insurance (your insurance company will consider your candidacy based on need).

The best time to consider these fees is during your initial consultation. It is extremely difficult to give an accurate quote without knowing the specifics of your situation and the results that you're after. The procedure that turns out to be your best option may not even be one that you initially considered, and thus, Dr. Paik will be the best resource for determining how to recapture the beauty you're looking for with the most cost-effective solution. We look forward to discussing your options when it comes to this exciting decision!

How do I know which treatment to choose?

With years of experience, Dr. Paik is uniquely qualified to recommend the best steps for you to take to address your signs of aging. At your consultation, we will ask questions regarding your health and aesthetic goals. There is no "catch-all" procedure with facial plastic surgery. Like your own unique look, your procedure will be tailor made to achieve the results that you're after.