Frequently Asked Questions about Plastic Surgery
Before deciding on any surgical procedure, it is natural to have doubts. Below, I have gathered the questions I receive most frequently from my patients about plastic surgery in general. For specific questions about each procedure, please consult the page of the procedure you are interested in: facial lifting, rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, otoplasty, mentoplasty, facial fat grafting or intimate surgery.
What type of anaesthesia is used in surgeries?
The type of anaesthesia depends on the procedure and its complexity. Major surgeries, such as facial lifting and rhinoplasty, are performed under general anaesthesia. Minor procedures, such as otoplasty in adults, can be done with sedation and local anaesthesia. In all cases, the anaesthetist is an experienced professional dedicated exclusively to your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Where are the surgeries performed?
I perform over 95% of my surgeries at the Heart Hospital of Londrina (HCor). It is a modern hospital, with state-of-the-art equipment, a complete surgical centre, and a dedicated nursing team. The choice of hospital is not casual: the infrastructure and support available directly contribute to a safer and more peaceful postoperative period.
What payment methods are accepted?
I accept bank transfer (PIX, TED or DOC), cash (Real, Dollar, Euro or Pound) and credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Elo, among others). Payment for the consultation and medical fees can be discussed directly during the appointment. For detailed information about costs, please visit the investment page.
Does health insurance cover the procedures?
The aesthetic procedures performed in my clinic are elective surgeries and, therefore, are not covered by health insurance. In cases with functional indications — such as rhinoplasty associated with a deviated septum that compromises breathing — there may be partial coverage depending on the plan. This possibility is assessed during the consultation.
Smoking. Can I have plastic surgery?
Smoking significantly compromises healing and blood circulation, increasing the risks of complications such as skin necrosis, infection, and widened scars. I request that my patients stop smoking at least 30 days before and 30 days after the surgery. In some procedures, such as facial lifting, this requirement is even stricter. Honesty about smoking habits is essential for me to plan your surgery safely.
What tests do I need to do before the surgery?
Preoperative tests vary according to the procedure and your health condition. In general, I request a complete blood count, coagulation profile, blood sugar, kidney function, electrocardiogram, and cardiological evaluation. For surgeries on the eyelids, an ophthalmological evaluation may be necessary. All tests are requested during the consultation and should be performed well in advance so that we can review them together before the surgery date.
Do I need to be hospitalised? For how long?
The majority of surgeries require a 24-hour hospital stay. You will be admitted on the day of the surgery, approximately one hour before the scheduled time, and will be discharged the following day. In minor procedures — such as otoplasty or isolated blepharoplasty — discharge may occur on the same day, after a period of observation. I evaluate each case individually to ensure that discharge occurs only when there is clinical safety.
Can I combine more than one surgery on the same day?
Yes, as long as there is a clinical indication and the total surgical time is safe. Frequent combinations include facial lifting with blepharoplasty and fat grafting, or rhinoplasty with mentoplasty. The decision to combine procedures takes into account your overall health, the estimated surgical time, and the risks involved. We discuss all possibilities during the consultation.
What are the risks of plastic surgery?
Every surgery involves risks, including infection, bleeding, reactions to anaesthesia, asymmetries, and unwanted scars. My role as a surgeon is to minimise these risks as much as possible through refined technique, rigorous planning, careful selection of the hospital, and close monitoring in the postoperative period. During the consultation, I openly discuss the specific risks of the procedure you are considering, so that your decision is informed and safe.
What is the difference between a plastic surgeon and a doctor who performs aesthetic procedures?
A plastic surgeon is a doctor who has completed a residency in general surgery followed by a residency in plastic surgery, totalling at least 5 years of surgical training after medical school. The Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery (SBCP) is the entity that certifies these professionals. Professionals from other specialties may perform some aesthetic procedures, but they do not have the same surgical training. Always check if your doctor is a member of the SBCP. I am a full member of the SBCP with CRM-PR 18573 and RQE 15741.
Does Dr. Walter operate on patients who have already had surgery with another doctor?
Yes. I receive patients who wish to revise or enhance the results of previous surgeries performed by other professionals. These cases, known as secondary or revision surgeries, require careful evaluation, as the anatomy has already been altered. During the consultation, I assess what has been done, what can be improved, and what the realistic limitations are. I am transparent about what is possible to achieve in each case.
How much rest do I need after the surgery?
The rest time varies according to the procedure. In general, I recommend relative rest for 7 to 14 days, during which you should avoid physical exertion, sun exposure, and activities that raise blood pressure. Light daily activities can be gradually resumed. Intense physical activities are usually allowed between 4 and 6 weeks. I provide all postoperative guidelines in writing at the time of hospital discharge and closely monitor your recovery during regular follow-ups. Please also consult my page on post-surgical recovery.
