Faq
1 . What is the cost of surgery?
We can give you a range of prices for specific procedures over the phone.
2 . Does Dr. Shapiro have his own surgery facility?
No. At this time, he prefers and believes it is safest to do surgery at a licensed out-patient surgical center.
3 . Is there a charge for consultation?
No, depending on the procedure, the consultation runs about 1 hour.
4 . Are there charges in addition to the surgery?
Yes, lab work, preoperative testing, mammogram and medications would be extra.
5 . How soon can I get an appointment?
Within 1 to 2 weeks
6 . How soon will surgery be scheduled?
Within 2 to 4 weeks from the initial appointment.
7 . How often will I have to come in after surgery?
Every few days at first, then 2 to 3 weeks; 4 to 6 weeks; or 3 to 6 months depending on the procedure you've had.
8 . How much time will I need to be off work?
Most procedures require at least 5 to 7 days.
9 . When can I start exercising again?
Six weeks after surgery.
10 . How long will I have restrictions?
Most restrictions are lifted at 6 weeks.
11 . Will there be post-operative bandages and how long will they remain?
It depends on the type of surgery. Most bandages are removed within the first few days: 1 to 3 days.
12 . Will I have bruising and swelling?
Each patient heals differently but usually there is some post-operative bruising and swelling.
13 . How long will it last?
Again, each patient is different; usually a few days to a week.
14 . Will I have stitches (sutures)?
Yes, for most surgeries.
15 . When will stitches (sutures) be removed?
If they are not a dissolvable suture, and depending on the procedure, anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks.
16 . Are bandages applied even after the stitches (sutures) are removed?
Sometimes steri strips (tape) are applied for a couple of weeks after sutures are removed. Some believe that incision lines heal better if steri strips or tape are applied for a few weeks.
17 . When can I shower or bathe?
Usually the first 24 to 72 hours after surgery. We prefer showering over bathing. You should wait until you are completely healed to take a bath.
18 . When can I tan?
Preferably not for 6 months as tanning will darken your incision lines. Six weeks would be minimum with the use of a sunscreen.
19 . When can I go swimming?
After 6 weeks. To prevent poor scarring, incisions should not be submerged for long periods of time.
20 . Will I be able to lift my baby or children, or anything heavy?
It's best that you lift nothing heavier than a gallon of milk for the first 2 weeks. And, nothing over 25 pounds for 6 weeks.
21 . Will I need someone to care for me after surgery?
Yes, for the first 24 hours, you must have someone to care for you.
22 . For how long?
After the first 24 hours, you may need assistance, such as someone to drive you to appointments.
23 . What kind of anesthesia does Dr. Shapiro use?
General anesthesia.
24 . Can the procedure be done under local anesthesia?
It depends on the surgery, minor things, yes, but most surgical cases require a light general anesthesia.
25 . Who will give me the anesthesia?
A board-certified anesthesiologist, a medical doctor.
26 . Are the facilities you use affiliated with any of the Scottsdale/Phoenix area hospitals?
Most of them, however, there are a few licensed free-standing facilities that we use.
27 . Isn't it less expensive to have surgery in an office operating room?
Not necessarily. Most physicians do charge extra (including it in the surgery fee) for their operating room suites.
29 . Is Dr. Shapiro Board Certified? By whom?
Yes, by The American Board of General Surgery and The American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr Shapiro is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
30 . How long has he been in practice?
Over 15 years in his own private practice.
31 . Does Dr. Shapiro have any other affiliations with societies, hospitals, teaching facilities?
His current affiliations are: American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, Fellow Arizona Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, Maricopa County Plastic Surgery Society, Former President
32 . Does he do surgery every day?
Yes, five days a week.
33 . Are you open for business on the weekends?
No. Therefore, any surgery which requires a 24-hour post-op appointment, should be scheduled Monday through Thursday
34 . What days does the doctor arrange consultations/appointments?
Usually on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Sometimes morning appointments are available depending on the surgical schedule.
35 . Does he have evening appointments?
Late afternoons can be arranged.