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
A valid referral is required for all plastic surgery consultations, including those related to cosmetic procedures. This helps us ensure that your consultation is correctly classified as medical or cosmetic, which affects how we manage your appointment.
Consultations for non-surgical treatments do not require a referral.
To assist with accurate scheduling, we kindly ask that your referral is provided prior to booking your consultation.
During your appointment, Dr Rodrigo Teixeira will take the time to understand your concerns and expectations. He will perform a thorough medical assessment and, where appropriate, may recommend additional information or investigations to support your treatment planning.
Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow time for registration and clinical photography, which may form part of your medical record.
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
About Your Consultation
Yes, a valid referral is required for all consultations regarding surgical procedures, including cosmetic surgery. This is a requirement under AHPRA guidelines and ensures the consultation is conducted in line with medical standards. Referrals are not required for non-surgical cosmetic treatments.
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.
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 Preparation
Some swelling, bruising, and tightness are common after surgery. You’ll receive written post-operative instructions and a personalised recovery plan outlining what to expect during each phase of healing.
Follow-up appointments may be with Dr Teixeira or one of our experienced nurses under his supervision. This team-based approach ensures consistent monitoring and support throughout your recovery.
You’ll be given contact details for our team and instructions on when and how to reach out. We are available to address concerns promptly and provide guidance when needed.
Yes. Unveil Aesthetics offers a range of complementary therapies to assist healing and improve comfort. These may include LED light therapy, lymphatic support, skincare, or scar management, tailored to your recovery stage and procedure.
We recommend avoiding travel during the early recovery period. Travel clearance will be discussed prior to surgery, or at your follow-up appointment once healing is progressing as expected.
Costs and Fees
Yes. After your consultation, you’ll receive a written quote for the surgeon’s and assistant’s fees, along with an estimate of total costs. We’ll also provide contact details for the hospital and anaesthetist so you can request their fees directly. If you decide to proceed after your second appointment, we can contact them on your behalf and forward their quotes to you.
Yes. A deposit is required to secure your surgery date. Full payment details and timing will be outlined in your quote and confirmed by our team. For cosmetic surgery, a mandatory cooling-off period of 7 days applies between your second consultation and the procedure, as required by AHPRA. You’ll be given time to consider your options before confirming your booking.
Some procedures may be eligible for Medicare rebates or private health insurance support if certain medical criteria are met. If your procedure qualifies, Dr Teixeira will advise you and provide the relevant item numbers. To avoid last-minute unexpected costs, we strongly recommend contacting your health insurer in advance to confirm your level of cover for any applicable Medicare item numbers.
General Questions
In some cases, yes. Combining procedures depends on factors such as your overall health, surgical safety, and the expected duration of the operation. Dr Teixeira will assess whether a combined approach is appropriate during your consultation.
You’ll receive an email with your surgery documentation and aftercare instructions to help you prepare. On the day, bring comfortable clothing, any regular medications, and your completed hospital paperwork. Please avoid wearing makeup, jewellery, or nail polish.
Yes. Post-operative care and scar management are included as part of your surgical treatment with Dr Teixeira. This includes follow-up appointments and guidance to support healing and monitor your progress. Additional recovery support is available through Unveil Aesthetics and may include LED light therapy, lymphatic treatments, or skincare programs. These complementary options are tailored to your procedure and offered at an additional cost.
