How do I choose a surgeon?

First and most importantly, make certain that your surgeon is board certified in plastic surgery by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and that they are a fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). These certifications assure your doctor has received the highest level of training available and has passed a series of rigorous examinations.

How long has Dr. Kennedy been in practice and is she board certified?

Dr. Kennedy has been in Dubuque as the areas only full time, board certified plastic surgeon since 1997. Prior to coming to Dubuque Dr. Kennedy completed advanced training in Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati, Ohio and Miami, Florida. Dr. Kennedy is Dubuque’s only Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. She is also board certified by the American Board of Surgery.

Why would I choose Plastic Surgery Aesthetics?

Plastic Surgery Aesthetics has transformed thousands of lives—just like yours—since 1997. We offer proven surgical expertise & skill - delivered in a private, comfortable setting—right here in Dubuque. After cosmetic surgery, our patients look healthier and feel better. They enjoy natural-looking changes that increase confidence and enhance their sense of well-being.

What do I do first?

Come in for a cosmetic consultation. We will review the procedure you are considering, make certain that you are comfortable with your choices and assure that you have a full understanding of the process—beginning to end. Call us at 563-589-9119 to set up an appointment.

If you think your concern may be covered by insurance, contact our office and we will help you with any insurance questions or coverage concerns. At your consultation Carol Grawe, our office manager, will review your insurance and any questions you may have.

How much will my procedure cost?

The costs vary by procedure and will be explained to you after the consultation. There are several components to our fees: the surgeon's fee, anesthesia fee and facility fee for each procedure. These fees include all garments, implants and medications used during surgery. All fees also include your pre-operative and post-operative care by Dr. Kennedy. Fees do not include prescription medications taken after surgery.

Do you offer financing for my procedures?

We do not offer financing but can put you in contact with several agencies which do. Other patients make payments to their account at the office and surgery is scheduled after fees are paid. Our office manager will review all of these options during your consultation.

Do you accept credit cards?

We accept personal checks, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and CareCredit Financing.

When is payment for surgery due and do you have a payment plan?

A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a surgery date. Payment in full is typically due two weeks in advance of surgery.

Why do I have a separate pre-operative appointment in addition to the initial consultation?

We feel it is important to review your goals and expectations as well as review the planned procedure and expected results. We also review the consent form for your surgery and instructions for care following surgery. Further, you are given prescriptions for medications you may require after surgery. At this appointment Dr. Kennedy will examine you and schedule any needed tests to ensure you are physically healthy for surgery.

Where will my surgery be done?

The majority of our elective surgery is done in our fully accredited, state-of-the-art surgery center. You will arrive approximately 30 minutes before surgery and spend several hours after surgery in the care of our recovery room team. We are also affiliated with major hospitals, including Mercy Medical Center next door. Depending on the type of surgery and your medical history, we may choose to perform your cosmetic procedure in a hospital.

What is the recovery time?

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and individual patient. Some patients will return to work after a few days while others require a month to return to their job. You may need to refrain from an exercise regime or vigorous activity for several weeks. Most patients are able to drive within 7-10 days depending on the surgery performed and their comfort level.

How long do implants last?

Generally an implants life varies on lifestyle and activity. Most are warrantied by the manufacturer and will be replaced if you encounter a deflation.

Do you use silicone gel implants?

Dr. Kennedy is able to use both saline and silicone implants for breast augmentation as well as breast reconstruction. Saline implants have been FDA approved for many years as safe to use. Silicone implants have only recently been approved by the FDA, and additional testing is required of all women electing to use silicone implants. It is our feeling that a very natural, soft, pleasing result can be achieved using saline implants in the majority of women. Information on both types of implants are available and can be reviewed in depth during your consultation.

Do you do Botox¨, collagen or hair removal?

Do you offer a skin care line? Plastic Surgery Aesthetics offers a full range of non-operative options—Botox®, Restylane® & Radiesse™ injections, hair removal, laser treatments and chemical and laser peels. We also have a referral program for facials, laser skin preparation and skin & make-up packages.

Copy adapted from the joint ASPS and PSEF website.