The Process
The decision to undergo any type of surgery is very important. You should seriously consider all the involved steps before making a decision.
Please note that the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines require all patients seeking cosmetic surgery or non-surgical cosmetic procedures be assessed for suitability and underlying psychological conditions including Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). The guidelines specify that a validated psychological screening tool must be utilised to screen for BDD in patients seeking cosmetic surgery. A screening tool is not required for patients seeking non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
All consultations with a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon require a General Practitioner (GP) referral, preferably from your usual GP, even if it is in relation to a cosmetic procedure that is not eligible for a Medicare rebate.
Dr Teston requires a copy of your GP referral before a consultation can be booked. The first consultation is mandatory and must be performed face to face with your surgeon.
During your consultation you will be provided the time you need to discuss your concerns, expectations and the risks and complications involved in the procedure. Dr Teston will perform a medical assessment and may request further information or investigations.
Please arrive 10 minutes before your consultation to allow for registration. Bring with you any and all questions regarding the procedure you are considering.
This consultation provides you an opportunity to ask any further questions you may have regarding the procedures and your care. All cosmetic surgery patients are required to have two consultations prior to surgery.
Should Dr Teston feel you are a suitable candidate for surgery she will follow up after your initial consultation with an informed consent form and an itemised estimate of the cost of your proposed treatment.
A mandatory 7-day cooling off period after providing informed consent is required for you to consider everything involved, including risks, potential complications and recovery in order to make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
The 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.
You may require assistance after discharge from hospital. You will receive continuous patient management by Dr Teston and her team and be provided with detailed post-operative care instructions.
After your surgery, Dr Teston and her practice team will arrange review appointments to check on your progress, inform you or results, and provide any further advice needed. Follow-up appointments are important to ensure the best possible outcome after your procedure.
