Consultation to Surgery and Follow-Up Care Process

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Choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery is a personal and important decision. At our practice, we strive to support patients every step of the way – from the initial enquiry to post-operative care and long-term follow-up. Our team provides detailed information, support, and care designed to meet your individual needs at every step.

Below, you will find an overview of what to expect throughout your surgical process with our Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Melbourne, Dr Vlad Milovic.

Step 1: Initial Contact and Information Gathering

Your journey begins with communicating with our team. Whether by phone, email, or our online enquiry form, you will be connected with a staff member who can answer general questions and provide resources about the procedure you are considering. At this stage, you may be asked to share a brief summary of your goals or concerns and to submit relevant photographs.

This is also when you can ask about surgery fees, scheduling timelines, and eligibility criteria. While we can provide a broad overview, an accurate surgical recommendation (including price estimates) can only be made after an in-person assessment.

Step 2: Comprehensive Consultations

If you decide to move forward, you will be scheduled for an initial consultation with Dr Milovic. This first appointment is designed to be thorough, respectful, and informative. Dr Milovic will review your medical history, assess the relevant area(s), and listen to your aesthetic goals. You will also be asked about your lifestyle, any medications you take, and whether you smoke or use nicotine-containing products, which may impact your candidacy.

A second consultation will be required to ensure you have time to reflect on the information provided and revisit any questions. This extra time can be especially beneficial for patients considering elective cosmetic surgery, in line with national guidelines prioritising informed consent. If you so desire, Dr Milovic will gladly meet with you for additional consultations.

Step 3: Reviewing Risks, Alternatives, and Expectations

Before deciding to proceed, Dr Milovic will walk you through the potential benefits, limitations, and complications of your proposed surgery. You may also be advised of alternative procedures that might better suit your needs.

We emphasise that cosmetic surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and patients are encouraged to consider the full range of possibilities. Patients who are well-informed and realistic about what surgery can achieve are typically better prepared for the surgical journey and long-term recovery.

Step 4: Written Estimate and Surgical Planning

Following your consultations, you will be provided with a detailed cost summary that outlines the expected surgical fee, anaesthesia, hospital charges, and post-operative care. In some cases, part of the procedure (as well as the initial consultation) may qualify for a Medicare item number; this will be clarified during your appointments, where relevant.

If you decide to proceed, a surgical plan will be finalised and your procedure date reserved. Patients will also receive written materials; these may include instructions on medications to avoid, how to prepare for the day of surgery, and guidelines for recovery.

Step 5: Day of Surgery

Dr Milovic only operates in accredited hospital facilities. Depending on your surgical plan, your procedure may involve general anaesthesia; in these cases, Dr Milovic will engage the services of a Fellow of the Royal Australian and NZ College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA).

After your procedure, you will recover in a monitored environment before being discharged, either on the same day or after an overnight stay.

Step 6: Post-Operative Care and Follow-Up

Recovery is an essential part of your journey. Dr Milovic will provide written aftercare instructions to help you navigate the days and weeks after surgery. These will cover everything from managing discomfort and swelling to when you can resume exercise or return to work. He will also explain the signs of potential complications and how to reach us after hours if needed. Furthermore, multiple follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor your progress and answer any questions as you heal.

Step 7: Ongoing Support and Feedback

Dr Milovic and his team take pride in maintaining long-term relationships with patients and are available for ongoing guidance, reassurance, and support – even years after surgery.
Our team provides comprehensive administrative and clinical support to maintain clear communication and continuity of care. You are free to request follow-up appointments at any point in your journey, and we are always available to assist with both clinical and administrative enquiries.

In addition, Dr Milovic is committed to patient education and maintaining professional standards of medical care. If at any stage you have feedback, concerns, or questions about your experience, we invite you to speak with us directly. You are also entitled to raise any concerns with AHPRA or another relevant health authority, and we are happy to assist if you need help doing so.

Patient Discretion and Privacy

Our practice has systems in place to ensure patient confidentiality at all times. From your very first interaction with our team, your personal information, photographs, and medical details are treated with the utmost discretion.

All communications and consultations are conducted respectfully and in accordance with applicable health privacy regulations. Should you have any preferences or concerns regarding discretion, please let us know; our team will accommodate individual requests whenever possible.

Many of our patients value a quiet, professional experience, and we are proud to offer a surgical journey that is as private and personalised as it is comprehensive. By providing detailed consultations, open communication, and comprehensive care, we aim to help you make well-considered, informed choices regarding your care.