Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

A: Once your surgery is confirmed, you’ll receive a complete set of pre-op instructions with all the details you’ll need.
In general, our standard hospital check-in time is 6:00 AM on the day of surgery, and check-out typically occurs the following day, around 12 noon, once you’ve been cleared by the medical team.

A: The doctor performing surgery on you will be Dr. Pearl Barroso and her team of  board-certified surgeons. However, she is the main lead of the team.

A: If our doctor has reviewed your case, provided a personalized surgical plan, and offered a quote, then yes — you’ve been determined to be a suitable candidate for the procedure.

A: All surgeries come with some degree of risk. It’s important to understand the possible complications so you can make an informed choice. Some of the most common risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, delayed healing, and reactions to anesthesia, and in some cases, even death. Your surgeon can discuss these in more detail during your consultation and explain how we work to minimize them.

Understanding the Risks and Complications:

While plastic and reconstructive surgeries are generally safe when performed by qualified professionals, it’s important to understand that all surgical procedures carry some level of risk. Being informed allows you to make the best decisions for your health and safety. Below is a breakdown of potential risks:

1. Infection
   Infections can develop at the incision site or deeper within the body following surgery. While most infections are mild and can be treated with antibiotics, more serious cases may require hospitalization or additional surgical intervention to address the problem effectively.

    

2. Bleeding
   Uncontrolled or excessive bleeding can occur during or after the procedure. In some situations, this may require a return to the operating room, blood transfusion, or other medical intervention to stabilize the patient.

    

3. Blood Clots
   One of the more serious post-operative risks is the development of blood clots, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which typically forms in the legs. In rare but life-threatening cases, these clots can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. To help prevent this, patients are strongly encouraged to move around as soon as possible after surgery—standing every hour and walking briefly throughout the day to stimulate circulation.

    

4. Anesthesia-Related Complications
   Although modern anesthesia is very safe, some patients may experience reactions. These can range from mild side effects like nausea to more serious events such as allergic reactions or complications involving the heart, lungs, or other organs. It’s crucial that you disclose your full medical history—including any substance use or medications—to your doctor during consultation.

    

5. Scarring
   All surgical procedures result in some level of scarring. While most scars fade over time, some individuals may develop hypertrophic or keloid scars, which are raised, thickened, and sometimes itchy. Your body’s healing response will play a major role in how your scars mature.

    

6. Nerve Damage
   Temporary changes in sensation—such as numbness, tingling, or sensitivity—are common after surgery. In rare cases, nerve damage can be long-term or permanent, especially in areas close to major nerve pathways.

    

7. Delayed Healing or Wound Separation
   Not all incisions heal at the same rate. In some instances, a wound may reopen or heal poorly, requiring additional medical attention or even revision surgery to correct.

    

8. Seroma (Fluid Collection)
   After surgery, fluid may build up beneath the skin at the treatment site. This is called a seroma and may need to be drained manually or through the placement of a surgical drain.

    

9. Swelling and Bruising
   Some degree of swelling and bruising is expected, but in certain cases, it may be more extensive or last longer than usual, affecting comfort and prolonging the recovery period.

    

10. Unsatisfactory or Uneven Results
    While we strive for the best possible outcome, no surgical result is ever guaranteed. Patients may sometimes experience asymmetry, contour irregularities, or dissatisfaction with the final result, which could require revision surgery. It’s important to enter surgery with realistic expectations.

     

11. Procedure-Specific Risks
    Each type of plastic surgery comes with its own unique set of risks. For example, fat transfer procedures such as a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) carry specific concerns like fat necrosis or fat embolism. Surgeries involving implants may involve risks such as implant rupture or rejection. While extremely rare, life-threatening complications or even death can occur in any surgical procedure.

     

Your surgeon can discuss these risks with you in detail during your consultation. Our team is committed to patient safety, and we take every precaution possible to minimize the chances of complications. If you have questions or concerns at any point in your journey, we’re here to support and guide you.

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Reducing Your Risk of Complications

To minimize the chances of complications, it’s crucial to carefully follow all pre- and post-operative instructions provided by your surgical team. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, fully disclosing your medical history, and choosing a board-certified, experienced surgeon all contribute to a safer and more successful outcome. Being open about your expectations and health status allows your surgeon to tailor the procedure to your needs and ensures you’re fully prepared for both surgery and recovery. Understanding the risks is key to making an informed and confident decision.

A: Recovery time depends on the procedure. Most patients require about 2 weeks off for general surgeries. More extensive procedures like a Tummy Tuck or Mommy Makeover usually require 3 to 4 weeks of downtime. Your coordinator will provide a personalized recovery timeline based on your procedure.

A: No, flying right after surgery is not advised. You should wait 7 to 14 days, depending on the procedure’s complexity and travel distance. Flying too soon increases the risk of blood clots, swelling, and other complications. Always follow your surgeon’s guidance before booking your return flight.

Why You Should Wait Before Flying

1. Increased Risk of Blood Clots (DVT)

Surgery increases your risk of blood clots, especially during extended periods of sitting. Air travel can heighten this risk, particularly for long flights.

2. Swelling and Post-Op Discomfort

Cabin pressure changes can worsen swelling and discomfort, delaying your recovery and increasing complication risks.

3. Healing Stability

Flying too early can strain healing incisions, raise the risk of wound separation, and delay recovery.

If You Must Travel by Air

Take the following precautions:

Get Medical Clearance: Only fly if your surgeon approves it.

Wear Compression Garments: Helps reduce swelling and prevent blood clots.

Stay Mobile: Walk around the cabin every hour.

Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of water to improve circulation.

Consider Flight Length: Domestic flights may require less downtime; international or long-haul flights usually need at least 4–6 weeks of healing.

A: Faja (Compression Garment): Wear for about 3 months. Start with a Stage 1 faja, then switch to Stage 2 around 6 weeks post-op.

Compression Socks: Wear continuously for the first 2 weeks, removing only for showers (if permitted). These reduce swelling and clot risk.

A: After procedures like a Tummy Tuck or Breast Lift, keep surgical tapes and incisions dry for about 5 weeks, or until your surgeon removes them. Use baby wipes to gently clean your body during this time, avoiding treated areas.

A: No, avoid driving for at least 2 weeks. Pain medications and limited mobility can impair driving ability. Wait for clearance from your surgeon.

A: Get plenty of rest, Stay well-hydrated
Book 10+ sessions of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

These practices help your body heal faster and more efficiently.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

What is HBOT?

HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which allows your lungs to absorb much more oxygen. This boosts tissue repair and healing.

Key Benefits:

• Accelerated Healing

• Infection Control

• Reduced Swelling & Inflammation

What to Expect During a Session:

Each session lasts 1–2 hours. Side effects are rare but may include ear pressure or temporary vision changes.

Affordable Access:

HBOT is often more affordable in places like Tijuana, making it a cost-effective choice for patients recovering from surgery.

A: Alcohol: Stop 30 days before and avoid for 2 months after surgery.
Smoking/Vaping/Cannabis: Stop 2–3 months before and avoid for 3 months post-op. These habits severely restrict blood flow and increase the risk of complications, including necrosis.

A:
Necrosis is the death of tissue due to poor blood supply, trauma, or infection. It cannot regenerate and may require surgical removal.

Common Causes:

• Smoking

   

• Poor circulation or compression

   

• Infection

   

• Trauma or surgical stress

   

Symptoms:

• Dark, discolored skin

   

• Foul-smelling drainage

   

• Numbness or pain

   

• Hard or leathery skin

   

Treatment Options:

• Debridement

   

• Antibiotics

   

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

   

Necrosis can lead to serious infections or sepsis if untreated.

A: Healing and scarring vary by procedure and personal factors. Here’s a general timeline:

Initial Healing (0–3 Weeks):

• Swelling, bruising, tightness

   

• Incisions begin to close

   

• Scabs may form

   

Scar Maturation (3–12 Months):

• Scars flatten, fade, and soften over time

   

Final Results (12+ Months):

• Scars usually become faint and less visible

   

Tips to Minimize Scarring:

• Keep incisions clean and dry

   

• Avoid sun exposure

   

• Use silicone sheets or scar creams

   

• Stay hydrated and eat well

   

• Don’t smoke or drink