Endoscopic Plastic Surgery

What is Endoscopic Plastic Surgery?

Endoscopic surgery, or 'endoscopy,' is one of the newest plastic surgery techniques. It allows surgeons to operate with fewer conspicuous incisions, reducing obvious scars. It has been used in orthopedic surgery, urology and gynecology for decades. Improvements in technology have enabled plastic surgeons to use endoscopy for many cosmetic procedures, including facelifts, forehead lifts, abdominoplasty, and breast augmentation. Endoscopy can also be used in some reconstructive procedures. In many cases, the use of endoscopy results in shorter recovery times.

Who is a good candidate for Endoscopic Plastic Surgery?

Candidates must be in good health, have no active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions, and must have realistic expectations of the outcome of the surgery. Your surgeon will consult with you to determine if endoscopy is the best surgical choice for you, based on your physical condition, the kind of procedure you are having done, and the desired results.

NOTE: You may not be a candidate for surgery if you smoke, have recently quit smoking, or if you are exposed to second-hand smoke. Primary and secondary smoking decreases blood flow to the body's tissues. This can result in prolonged wound healing, skin loss, infection, increased scarring, and a number of other complications depending on the kind of procedure performed. Click here for more information related to smoking.

How is the procedure performed?

The endoscope, a tubular probe fitted with a tiny camera and bright light, is inserted through a small incision. This lets the surgeon view the body's internal structures on a viewing screen while moving the tube of the endoscope through the surgical area. Additional surgical instruments such as scalpels, scissors, or forceps are inserted through different incisions and are used to perform the operation.

List of Physicians Who Perform Endoscopic Techniques

For details about education, experience, and specialty in this clinical area, please visit these physician profile pages:

• Amy K. Alderman, M.D.
• David L. Brown, M.D.
• Paul Cederna, M.D.

Planning for Your Surgery

First, schedule a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you'd like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and what long-term benefits you will experience. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation:

• Provide a complete medical history. Include information about any previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and all medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
• Your surgeon may conduct a complete physical examination.
• Be prepared to discuss possible risks and complications of the procedure.

Preparing for Your Surgery

You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. A pre-operative information packet will be provided that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. Your surgeon will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. You may also want to make arrangements for someone to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital.

Where Your Surgery Will Be Performed

Your procedure will take place in the University of Michigan Hospitals' state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. The majority of these procedures are completed on an out-patient basis.

Types of Anesthesia

You'll remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In most cases, general anesthetic is used so that you will sleep throughout the procedure; although local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is also an option for some patients.

After Your Surgery

It is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have.