Patient Process
Our aim is to support you through every step of the patient process.
The Decision
The decision to undergo any form of surgery is very important. You should seriously consider all the steps that are involved before making a decision. If you have any questions or need help to prepare for your consultation, a pre-consultation phone call can be arranged.
Please note that Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines require that all patients seeking cosmetic surgery or non-surgical cosmetic procedures be assessed for suitability and underlying psychological conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
The AHPRA guidelines specify that a validated psychological screening tool must be used to screen for BDD for patients seeking cosmetic surgery. A screening tool is not required for patients seeking non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
The Initial Consultation
Please note that all consultations with a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon now require a General Practitioner referral, even if it is regarding a cosmetic procedure that won’t be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
We require a copy of your GP referral before we can book you in for a consultation. This is important, as we need to identify whether the procedure is likely to be Cosmetic or Medical to book you correctly.
Dr Teixeira will give you the time you need to discuss your concerns and expectations. He will perform a medical assessment and may request further information or investigations.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your consultation time to allow for registration and photographs. Bring with you any and all questions you have regarding the procedure you are considering.
The Second Consultation
Your second consultation provides an opportunity to ask any further questions you may have regarding the procedure and your care. All cosmetic surgery patients are required to have two consultations. At least one consultation needs to be with the surgeon performing your surgery.
The second, mandatory consultation may be conducted via video conferencing.
The Cooling Off Period (Cosmetic Surgery)
If Dr Teixeira feels you are a suitable candidate for surgery, he will follow up your initial consultation with an informed consent and an estimate of cost for your proposed treatment.
You are encouraged to take the 7-day cooling off period after providing informed consent to consider everything involved, including risks, complications and recovery to make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
A 7-day cooling off period (or 3 months for those under the age of 18) is required before a booking for cosmetic surgery can be made.
The Preparation for Surgery
Preparing for surgery is an important part of the process. You should be physically and mentally prepared, confident about your decision, and ready to help yourself remain calm before surgery.
- Adopt a Healthy Routine: Exercise regularly, eat well, and abstain from smoking and alcohol consumption. This will strengthen your body and optimise the healing process post-surgery.
- Medications and Supplements: Stop any medications and supplements that may increase bleeding two weeks before surgery, as directed by Dr Teixeira.
- Hospital Admission and Fasting: You will receive information about your hospital admission, including fasting times. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully.
- Post-Operative Instructions: Detailed post-operative instructions will be provided. Reading these carefully is essential for a smooth recovery.
If you have any questions or need further information, please contact us for clarification.
The Surgery
Dr Teixeira will see you prior to surgery and mark the areas of treatment when required. If you are having general anaesthesia or sedation, you will also be seen by the consultant anaesthetist, who will ask supplementary questions, explain about anaesthesia and discuss your post-operative pain treatment. Make sure you are prepared for your hospital stay and arrange for someone to take you home after discharge.
The Aftercare
You may need assistance after hospital discharge. If you are an international or interstate patient and do not have friends or family to assist you for the first few days post surgery, please discuss options with us.
You will receive continuous patient management by Dr Teixeira and his team and be provided with detailed post-operative care instructions. Always follow the post-operative instructions to avoid preventable complications.
After your operation, Dr Teixeira and his practice staff will arrange review appointments to check on your progress, inform results and provide further advice. These follow-up appointments are important for ensuring the best possible outcome after your procedure.
Privacy and Confidentiality Throughout
We understand that privacy and discretion are important to our patients. Our practice is committed to providing uncompromised care and this extends to the measures we have taken to protect patient privacy. You have the full right to decide how and when your private information is used and stored. We have safeguards in place that prevent misuse of medical data. All photographs, results and other information will not be shared unless you specifically give permission to do so. For further information on privacy please consult our staff and they will be more than happy to provide you with all the answers you need.