Consultation Process
Your consultation with Dr Rodrigo Teixeira (FRACS) is the first step in making an informed decision about surgery. The process follows AHPRA requirements, including GP referral and cooling-off periods. Our aim is to guide and support you at every stage of your surgical experience, from consultation through to recovery.
Making an Informed Decision
Plastic surgery is a personal decision that should be made for the right reasons and with clear understanding of the benefits, limitations, and potential risks.
Dr Teixeira encourages open discussion about your goals, medical history, and expectations to ensure treatment choices are appropriate.
Each plan is developed with a focus on safety, anatomy, and realistic outcomes, supporting informed decision-making.
What to Expect at Your Initial Consultation
A referral from your general practitioner (GP) is required before booking a consultation. At your appointment, Dr Rodrigo Teixeira (FRACS) will review your medical history, assess your anatomy, and discuss your goals to determine whether surgery is suitable. A thorough examination is performed, and clinical photographs may be taken for planning and documentation.
During your consultation, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) screening may be conducted in line with AHPRA guidelines for cosmetic surgery. Non-Surgical prescription-only treatments are discussed during a consultation only, in accordance with TGA regulations. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about potential treatment options, expected recovery, and associated risks before deciding how to proceed.
Follow-Up Consultation (for Cosmetic Surgery)
If you are considering a cosmetic surgical procedure, a second consultation is mandatory before booking surgery. This appointment allows you to review the information discussed at your first visit, ask further questions, and confirm your understanding of the procedure, recovery, and risks.
In accordance with AHPRA and Medical Board of Australia guidelines, at least one consultation must be in person with the operating surgeon, and a minimum seven-day cooling-off period follows before any cosmetic surgery can be scheduled. Additional video or in-person reviews may be arranged if you wish to discuss your plan in more detail or need more time to decide.
Cooling-Off Period for Cosmetic Surgery
A cooling-off period is an important part of the decision-making process, giving patients time to reflect before proceeding with surgery. In accordance with AHPRA and Medical Board of Australia guidelines, adults must observe a minimum seven-day cooling-off period after the second consultation before scheduling any cosmetic procedure.
For patients under 18 years of age, the minimum cooling-off period is three months, and surgery can only proceed with appropriate psychological assessment and parental or guardian consent. This time allows patients to review the information provided, seek a second opinion if desired, and make an informed, confident decision about surgery.
Preparing for Surgery
Once your surgical plan is confirmed, you will receive detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare safely. These include guidance on medications, fasting, lifestyle adjustments, and postoperative arrangements such as transport and support at home. You will also need to provide written consent, and receive documents outlining the procedure, potential risks, and recovery expectations.
Preparation is an important part of achieving a smooth surgical experience and recovery. Patients are encouraged to read all provided information carefully and contact the clinic with any questions before the procedure date.
What Happens on the Day of Surgery
On the day of your procedure, you will be admitted to an accredited hospital in Melbourne. Before surgery, Dr Rodrigo Teixeira (FRACS) will review your plan, mark incision sites, and confirm that all details have been discussed and understood. You will also meet the anaesthetist, who will review your medical history and discuss anaesthesia and postoperative pain management.
The length of surgery depends on the type of procedure and any additional treatments planned. After your operation, you will be transferred to the recovery area, where nursing staff will monitor your early progress. Some patients go home the same day, while others stay overnight for observation and comfort. You will receive written postoperative instructions and contact information before discharge to support safe recovery at home.
Aftercare and Recovery Following Plastic Surgery
Recovery differs for every patient and depends on the procedure, overall health, and natural healing response. Written aftercare instructions are provided to guide each stage of recovery, outlining wound care, activity restrictions, and medication use. Follow-up appointments are coordinated by Dr Teixeira and his clinical team to monitor progress and provide ongoing support. Patients are encouraged to contact the clinic directly with any postoperative questions.
Optional recovery and scar management treatments are available at Unveil Aesthetics when clinically appropriate. Healing and visible results vary between individuals and continue to evolve as tissues settle over time. Recovery and aftercare are discussed during consultation to ensure realistic expectations and a supported recovery experience.
Your Privacy and How We Protect It
Your privacy is central to the care we provide. We know that seeking plastic surgery is often a personal decision, and we are committed to offering a welcoming, respectful, and discreet environment. Our clinic in Ivanhoe East, Melbourne, is designed with your comfort in mind, and our team is trained to handle your care with professionalism and sensitivity at every stage.
All personal and medical information is managed in line with privacy laws and ethical obligations. Records, photographs, and clinical data are securely stored and not shared without your written consent. If you have questions about how your information is handled, we are always available to provide clear answers and reassurance.
FAQs
About Your Consultation
Yes. A valid referral is required for all consultations relating to surgical procedures, including cosmetic surgery. This ensures your appointment is conducted in line with medical standards and supports continuity of care. Referrals are not required for non-surgical treatments.
Telehealth may be available for some appointments, particularly if you live interstate or need flexibility. At least one consultation must take place in person to allow for a full clinical assessment.
Telehealth may be available for initial or follow-up appointments, particularly for patients who live interstate or require flexibility. However, at least one consultation must be conducted in person to allow for a full clinical assessment, as required by AHPRA guidelines.
Surgical Planning and Recovery
It is normal to experience swelling, bruising, and tightness. You’ll receive personalised post-operative instructions and a recovery plan tailored to your procedure, helping you know what to expect at each stage.
Follow-up reviews may be with Dr Teixeira or with an experienced nurse under his supervision. This team-based approach ensures you receive consistent and supportive care.
You will be given clear contact details and instructions for when to get in touch. Our team is available to provide reassurance and advice whenever you need it.
Yes. Unveil Aesthetics in Melbourne offers therapies such as LED light therapy, lymphatic support, skincare, and scar management. These can be tailored to your procedure and recovery needs.
We advise against travel during the early recovery period. Your suitability for travel will be reviewed during follow-up appointments once healing is underway.
Costs and Fees
Yes. After your consultation, you’ll receive a written quote for surgical and assistant fees, along with estimated hospital and anaesthetic costs. If you choose to proceed, we can help coordinate these quotes for you.
Yes. A deposit is required to secure your surgery date. Payment schedules will be outlined clearly in your quote. For cosmetic surgery, a 7-day cooling-off period applies before you can finalise your booking.
Some reconstructive or medically necessary procedures may be eligible for Medicare rebates or private health cover. Dr Teixeira will let you know if your surgery qualifies and provide item numbers. We recommend checking with your insurer to confirm your level of cover.
General Questions
In some cases, yes. This depends on your health, safety considerations, and the length of surgery. Dr Teixeira will advise during your consultation whether combining procedures is suitable.
You’ll receive instructions in advance. On the day, bring comfortable clothing, your regular medications, and completed hospital paperwork. Avoid makeup, and jewellery.
Yes. Scar management and recovery support are included as part of your surgical care. Additional treatments, such as LED light therapy and advanced skincare, are available through Unveil Aesthetics in Ivanhoe East, Melbourne, to support healing and comfort.