Frequently Asked Questions

Q:

Is ear, nose and/or throat surgery safe?

All surgical procedures are accompanied by a certain degree of risk, whether the procedures are for medical or cosmetic reasons. Our expert team is dedicated to making your operation go smoothly. We carefully review your medical history and current health condition before deciding if it is safe for you to proceed with surgery. It is important that you fully disclose all pertinent information so that we are able to make an accurate assessment of the risks involved. We will take every precaution necessary to reduce the possibility of any complications.

Q:

How do I know if surgery is right for me?

There several important factors that come into play when deciding whether surgery is the right option for you. One of the most important factors is your health. Being in good health greatly reduces the risk of complications occurring during surgery and leads to a speedy recovery. Next, you need to ask yourself what your needs are. Set reasonable goals as to the result you wish to achieve and be prepared to thoroughly discuss these goals during your initial consultation.

Q:

Can I have several procedures performed simultaneously?

It is a relatively common practice for a surgeon to perform multiple procedures during one operation if needed. This allows the surgeon to better help your condition. In addition, having several procedures done simultaneously saves you the expense of paying the operating room and anesthesia costs more than once. However, having too much done at one time can lead to complications. The decision to have multiple procedures done depends on which procedures are being done, the extent of surgery, the operating time, and your age/health. Ultimately, the surgeon decides whether or not it is appropriate to include more than one procedure in your operation.

Q:

Does it matter how old I am?

Due to the variety of procedures available, there can be no blanket rule on age although age will be taken into consideration when planning your operation. People of all ages have taken advantage of the options offered by Dr. Lutz. There are even procedures appropriate for young children! What is a good procedure for one person may not be an appropriate procedure for another. We are committed to making your surgery experience a successful one.

Q:

How long will it take to recover from my surgery?

Generally, post-operative instructions call for rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. The length of recovery varies with each procedure and is different for each individual. If you follow our post-operative instructions carefully, you will be able to enjoy your normal activities within no time. When you come in for your consultation we can discuss your expected recovery period and any post-operative instructions in detail.

Q:

Will my insurance cover the surgery?

Insurance providers generally cover costs for reconstructive surgery but not for cosmetic surgery. For example, insurance providers will often pay for breast augmentation to reconstruct a breast following a mastectomy; breast reduction to remedy back pain caused by heavy breasts; eyelid surgery to remove sagging skin that blocks vision; nose surgery to allow for a patient to breathe better; or tummy tucks to remedy the vertical separation of abdomen muscles known as diastasis.  Insurance providers are required by law to cover breast reconstruction surgery and any cosmetic operations necessary to create symmetry in either breast. If your surgery is covered by insurance, pre-certification is required. We will be happy to assist you with the process.