CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA www.premiumcareplasticsurgery.com
PLASTIC SURGERY IN COLOMBIA Known for its beautiful people and for excellence in aesthetic plastic surgery, Colombia has positioned itself as the regional leader in cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgeons in Colombia are world-renowned for their skill and eye for beauty, and have long been serving a population where the commitment to looking great is a national obsession.1 There is very demand for aesthetic plastic surgery in Colombia, with one of the highest per capita rates of aesthetic surgery procedures in the world. Colombia has emerged as a prime tourist destination in South America, and has become known as a first class destination for medical procedures and cosmetic treatments.2, 3 Patients from the United States, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America now have access to top quality medical services at a fraction of the cost. Prestigious international surgeons also base themselves in Colombia, providing the region with world-class expertise and sophistication. Thousands of patients are traveling to Colombia from abroad every month for procedures, resulting in significant growth in this sector.4, 5, 6
Costs are often 40-50% less than in the United States and Europe, saving patients thousands of dollars on cosmetic procedures while providing all of the safety and quality that they would receive in top U.S. and European centers.7 Premium Care Plastic SurgeryŽ offers a complete medical tourism experience with comprehensive care packages, five star recovery facilities in stunning locations, and exquisite patient service. 1. International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Available at: http://www.isaps.org 2. Bureau of Consular Affairs, US State Department, Dec 30, 2011. Available at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1766.html 3. Tourism Statistics Colombia. Ministry of Commerce and Tourism, Colombia, Dec 30, 2011. Available at: https://www.mincomercio.gov.co/publicaciones.php?id=16590 4. Comparison Platform for Global Healthcare, Colombia. Available at: http://www.flyclinic.com/ 5. Colombia Medical Tourism - Some of the finest cosmetic surgeons anywhere. Available at: http://www.medicaltourism.com/en/destination/colombia.html 6. Colombia on the Vanguard of Medical Tourism
. Proexport Colombia. Miami, 23, June, 2010. Available at: http://www.proexport.com.co/ 7. Available at: www.plasticsurgery-colombia.com
TRAVEL FOR SURGERY™ Cartagena, Colombia Medical tourism is the rapidly-growing practice of traveling to a destination in another country to receive medical and surgical care. This is done because the destination allows better access to care, provides higher quality care, or offers a more affordable price. Cosmetic surgery in Colombia represents an increasingly attractive option for consumers looking for the ultimate combination of quality, price, availability, service, enjoyment, and value. Travel for plastic surgery has become a widespread phenomenon, combining the expertise of a variety of arenas including plastic surgery, wellness, hospitality, and tourism. Premium Care has redefined the recovery experience with specialized treatment protocols to maximize preparation, healing, results, and overall enjoyment. Transformation is a physical and emotional process, and there is something about our Caribbean setting that seems to enhance the entire process. Our healthcare, service, and tourism specialists seamlessly blend services to offer unmatched personal care while guests enjoy the luxuries of Cartagena, the Jewel of South America. A stroll through the Old Town in the evening and delicious meal at one of the local restaurants is a great way to end a day of progress, and to ponder tomorrow and beyond!
Welcome to Premium CareÂŽ
We are pleased to present our iBook, designed as an educational resource for patients. We have assembled the information and recommendations in the iBook for patients to be as involved as possible in their care. Any plastic surgery procedure has a huge impact on your life by creating a physical change, which in turn brings psychological changes as well. There is tremendous power in plastic surgery, and your investment in the process can ensure that you unlock the true potential of the new you. If you’re looking for innovative and experienced plastic surgeons in Colombia, you’ve come to the right place. Our practice understands how to help our patients achieve their individual goals, and leave them feeling beautiful inside and out. Give us a call or request a consultation online to speak with one of our board certified plastic surgeons at Premium Care.
This booklet discusses the important information you need to know in order to make the best decisions for yourself. It also discusses aspects of the process such as consultation, preparation, surgery, and recovery. Premium Care is reinventing the plastic surgery experience in the spectacular Caribbean setting of Cartagena, and our entire team is centrally focused on the safety, service, and enjoyment of our patients.
Patients want the best when it comes to plastic surgery, and now they have an option that offers international clinical expertise, advanced technology, and luxurious facilities, all complemented by a warm and personalized human touch. Based in the beautiful Caribbean setting of Cartagena, we are able to provide a premium level of service and quality in plastic surgery that results in superior outcomes and an unparalleled patient experience.
OUR PLASTIC SURGEONS Premium Care Plastic Surgery is home to plastic surgeons Dr. Alex Campbell and Dr. Carolina Restrepo, who enhance the appearance men and women that come to the practice for the very best in care. Both of our plastic surgeons are Board Certified, and are internationally recognized for their experience and contributions in plastic surgery. Together they offer the combined expertise from some of the world’s most prestigious centers. Dr. Campbell and Dr. Restrepo have significant experience in the subspecialties of cosmetic surgery of the face, breast, and body as well as pediatric plastic surgery. They are leaders in the international healthcare landscape, and Premium Care Plastic SurgeryŽ is recognized as a gold standard in the medical tourism industry. Dr. Alex Campbell brings his Los Angeles and Beverly Hills background Cartagena to offer patients the latest and most refined techniques in cosmetic, reconstructive, and pediatric plastic surgery. He is the author of multiple publications and speaks around the world on issues of plastic surgery, global health, and international surgical care. Dr. Carolina Restrepo is from Bogota, Colombia, which has achieved global acclaim for innovations and cutting edge techniques in cosmetic plastic surgery. She brings a female perspective and woman’s touch to our patients, along with a South American spark that enhances our practice.
Surgical Services BREAST AUGMENTATION
7 n ights
Breast augmentation is a surgical enhancement procedure to accentuate the size and shape of a woman’s breasts with breast implants. Breast augmentation is one of the most common plastic surgery operations in Colombia and worldwide, with a very high satisfaction rating.
BREAST LIFT
10 nights
Breast lift raises and firms the breasts by reshaping the breast tissue and removing excess skin. This elevates the nipple to a perky position while creating an improved overall form and shape.
BREAST REDUCTION
10 nights
Breast reduction surgery is designed to make the breasts smaller and lighter to alleviate the symptoms large breasts and improve overall quality of life. This allows women to lead healthier, more comfortable lives in addition to enjoying a beautiful and more proportionate appearance.
TUMMY TUCK
14 nights
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and restores the weakened abdominal wall, giving a firmer and smoother appearance. We nearly always add liposuction to our tummy tucks to sculpt the body for a 360-degree improvement.
LIPOSUCTION
8 nights
Liposuction can help men and women achieve a more ideal body contour. Liposuction is a very powerful technique in the right hands, and can have dramatic results in a variety of areas and in a variety of patients. Fat is removed to strategically sculpt the body, and the skin retracts over the new shape.
BRAZILIAN BUTT LIFT
8 nights
When planning a Brazilian butt lift, patients can look forward to a double benefit: reducing areas of unwanted fat while gaining a perkier rounded posterior. Our plastic surgeons plan each procedure according to the individual needs of their patients.
Surgical Services MOMMY MAKEOVER
8-14 nig hts
Mommy makeovers involve common combinations of procedures that mothers seek after they are finished having children. These usually involve procedures of the breast, abdomen, back, waist, arms, thighs, and buttocks Combination procedures are safe and effective in the right hands, and at Premium CareÂŽ we use two plastic surgeons for all of these procedures. This allows us to perform more surgery in less time, giving our patients better results and recovery.
EYELID SURGERY
7 nig hts
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can be performed on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both. This procedure helps reverse the signs of aging by reducing puffiness and drooping that occurs around the eyelids.
BROW LIFT
12 nig hts
A brow lift is designed to counteract the signs of aging due to brow descent. Raising these tissues opens up the area around the eyes to make patients look younger and more refreshed.
FACELIFT
12 nights
Facelift (rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure designed to improve the signs of aging by tightening sagging muscles and smoothing wrinkled skin to provide a fresh, youthful appearance. When done by an expert this can take 10 or more years from a patient’s overall look.
RHINOPLASTY
8 nights
Nose surgery can improve the appearance and proportion of your nose, or correct a breathing problem associate with the nose. Nose surgery in Colombia is divided into two categories: cosmetic and functional. Examples of cosmetic procedures on the nose include reducing a prominent bump on the bridge or refining a bulbous nasal tip.
EAR SURGERY
8 nights
Ear surgery (otoplasty) can improve the shape, position or proportion of the ear. It can correct a defect in the ear structure that is present at birth, or it can treat misshapen ears caused by injury.
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Consultation with Premium Care®
RESEARCH Research the plastic surgery procedure(s) you are interested in so that you can make the most out of your consultation. Also learn about our surgeons from their profiles and resumes. Write down all of your questions so that you don’t forget them when you talk to your surgeon, and be prepared to discuss your medical history. Bring photos of how you want (or don’t want to look). If you are seeking rhinoplasty or breast augmentation, bring in some photos that are appealing. If you are seeking facelift or other facial rejuvenation procedures, bring in photos of yourself at a younger age.
VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS
INDIVIDUALIZED PLANNING
Virtual consultations further enhance the care process for international patients by utilizing telemedicine for the initial consultation. Patients speak directly with plastic surgeons by phone or video conference to discuss options, ask questions, and develop a treatment plan.
At our beautiful offices in Bocagrande, your plastic surgeon will meet you and discuss your goals. He / she will perform a complete and thorough examination. After taking photos, you will have a very specific discussion about the changes you want, and the precise options available for each goal. You will finalize your surgical plan together, and discuss all aspects of care to be fully educated about the process.
HOW MUCH? After an evaluation by one of our plastic surgeons, Premium Care® will provide you with an itemized quote detailing all fees associated with the treatment process. We work very hard to make dreams come reality for our patients, and tailor surgical packages to meet their needs.
Surgical Packages ALL-INCLUSIVE SURGICAL PACKAGES Designed to provide comprehensive care. Include surgical and medical fees, airport transfers, recovery suites, nursing, follow up care, medications, and therapy. PERSONALIZED CARE You will always be with someone of our team throughout the process including your anesthesia evaluation, buying medications and garments, transportation to and from surgery, and constant follow up during recovery. POST OPERATIVE THERAPY Our certified aestheticians perform specialized postoperative therapy sessions to optimize post-operative recovery after liposuction and tummy tuck procedures. Each session is 45 min long and helps to enhance lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling, soften tissues, and speed recovery. Patients begin the day after surgery and continue throughout their stay. INSURANCE An insurance policy is purchased for all plastic surgery patients and covers expenses related to medical, emergency room, hospital, and surgical services in Colombia for 30 days after surgery. Additional coverage is available upon request. GARMENTS AND MEDICATIONS Two sets of postoperative garments appropriate to procedure(s)
NOT INCLUDED *Airfare (purchased by patient directly) *Preoperative Blood Work (obtained by patient directly)
SCHEDULING SURGERY ยง ยง
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Confirm a Date with our patient coordinators Deposit payment. USD $500 due at booking to hold surgical date. Bookings are made on a firstcome, first-served basis. Copy of your passport Flight Itinerary. We need this to schedule your airport pick up and to build your Patient Itinerary, which will indicate all of your appointments. You must arrive to Cartagena 48 hours before surgery. Results of Laboratory Exams. These must be within 3 months of your surgery date.
Experience Premium CareÂŽ
Gold Standard in Plastic Surgery As your plastic surgery and cosmetic enhancement professionals, we want you to be confident knowing that we are a team of highly trained and skilled clinicians. We offer the finest in patient care in peaceful, refined, and state-of-the-art facilities. We have also reinvented the postoperative recovery experience, caring for our patients with a unique level of attention and detail, and strategies that are proven to enliven the spirit, quicken the healing process, and improve results. At Premium CareÂŽ, we aim to make each encounter, experience, and treatment outcome so satisfying that the patient is inspired to recommend us to others.
Preparing for Surgery MEDICAL PREPARATION It is very important to be in good physical health before any surgical procedure. Talk to your physician ahead of time to find out if there are steps you can take to optimize your medical condition for surgery. You will need to get some lab work done, and meet with an anesthesiologist to make sure your health is optimized.
STOP SMOKING The surgical side effects of smoking are serious and can cause complications both during surgery as well as during the recovery process. If you smoke, it is recommended that you quit smoking at least one month before your surgery.
AVOID CERTAIN FOODS, DRUGS, AND MEDICATIONS Over the counter drugs that contain aspirin can thin the blood and can cause difficulties in surgery. You will be asked to refrain from aspirin, aspirin-containing products, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and herbal supplements for two weeks before surgery in order to minimize risks for bleeding.
PERSONAL PREPARATION At Premium Care, we will help you to purchase all of your compression garments, medications, and antibacterial soap. Keep all medications and postoperative supplies organized and handy. If you are having facial cosmetic surgery, purchase ice compresses to reduce swelling. Make sure your bed is set up with lots of pillows to elevate your head. Organize entertainment such as DVDs, books, and games.
Ready for Surgery? PRE OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS Two • • •
– three weeks before surgery: No smoking No aspirin or ibuprofen No vitamin supplement containing Vitamin E or Omega
On the day of surgery: • Take out all body jewelry, contact lenses and make up • Remove nail polish or acrylics nails • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
RECOMMENDATIONS BEFORE SURGERY Some additional items we recommend our liposuction and tummy tuck patients to buy before surgery: • • • •
Disposable sheets Adult Diapers Isodine Maxipads
Surgery
PRE-OP INSTRUCTIONS § § § §
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Remove jewelry and leave personal items at home. Do not wear contact lenses or make-up. Wear comfortable clothing so that it is easy to get you dressed after surgery. Wear comfortable shoes. Shower the night before and morning of surgery with antibacterial soap. Wash your hair the night before surgery. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before surgery. Try to get a good night's sleep, knowing that you are in good hands with Premium Care®. Bring your post-operative garments to surgery. Arrive our surgery center early for a great start. Bring your best energy so we can work together for a great surgery!
THE MORNING OF SURGERY • § § §
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Our great nurses will get you into a gown and help you through the preoperative preparations. The anesthesiologist will meet you prior to surgery and review the plan. An intravenous line (IV) will be placed to deliver fluids and medications. Your surgeon will meet with you and make all necessary preoperative markings. He / she will answer any questions and exchange information with your companion(s) in order to contact them after surgery . You will enter the operating room with your surgeon(s) and their team of professionals centrally focused on your safety and delivering excellent results.
“OUR TEAM APPROACH TO PLASTIC SURGERY GIVES OUR PATIENTS TWICE THE EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE WHEN IT COUNTS MOST, IN THE OPERATING ROOM”
YOUR SURGICAL PROCEDURE § § §
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Your surgeon and the entire team will be by your side as you count down to a peaceful sleep. An OR full of expert medical providers works seamlessly to ensure the best possible procedure. We are especially proud of the team-work in the OR, which shortens operative times, quickens recovery, and improves results. After surgery we will place all postoperative dressings and garments. Our recovery room nurses will guide you through a gentle emergence from your sleep, and make sure you are comfortable as you wake up and realize that you are finished with surgery!
AFTER SURGERY § §
MORE SURGERY – LESS TIME
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Once you are fully awake, tolerating liquids, and feeling comfortable we will prepare you to go home. Premium Care nurses will help you to get settled in according to the surgeon’s instructions, and provide assistance after surgery. You will take pain medications and any additional medications as directed. Take stool softeners as directed to avoid constipation. Your diet will begin as clear liquids and progress to light foods after anesthesia. Go slowly at first as anesthesia and pain medications can cause nausea. If you have nausea we can treat it with medications. Our nurses, surgeons, and staff will check on you regularly to make sure things are proceeding well. If there are any questions or concerns, call Premium Care directly and receive immediate service, advice, and action if needed. We predict a smooth recovery process but are always prepared and available.
ACKNOWLEDGE THE MENTAL PROCESS §
BETTER RESULTS – QUICKER RECOVERY
You will be experiencing the emotional reactions that accompany the transformation of plastic surgery. Remember that these are normal responses and work to maintain full of positivity and good energy!
Recover in Paradise™ Recovery is an essential part of the plastic surgery experience, and we pride ourselves on working with our patients after surgery to give them every advantage for great outcomes. It is important to take good care of yourself, allowing yourself enough downtime and not pushing too hard to get back to your normal activities. We will guide you through the process, and empower you to lead the way. BASIC GUIDELINES: If your procedure takes place above the shoulders (head, face, neck), keep your head elevated for several days, even when you are sleeping. This will help minimize swelling and bruising. Ice is recommended after facial procedures such as facelift and eyelid surgery. Use ice packs or frozen peas for approximately 10-20 minutes each hour. Ice is most helpful during the first 48-72 hours. If your procedure requires a compression garment, make sure to keep it on as much as possible. Your body needs extra support and the bandage or garment will help minimize swelling. If the garment is causing any issues, notify our nurses or surgeons. Your surgeon will let you know when you’ll be able to bathe, wear makeup, resume light activities, and participate in more strenuous activities. You may be an exceptionally strong and resilient person, but you still need to take the time and rest during recovery. Take it easy. Take it slowly. Treat yourself kindly and you will soon be back to your normal life looking and feeling great! Continue to follow age-defying activities such as getting enough rest, lowering stress, using sunscreen, exercising, and eating healthy. Follow your doctor’s instructions, and get ready to enjoy the new you.
REDEFINING THE PLASTIC SURGERY EXPERIENCE ™ We offer an intensive recovery experience that is safe, complete, and enjoyable. We have designed the Premium Care Recovery Suites™ with every detail focused on your recovery, so that we can optimize your results. The postoperative environment we’ve created is second to none, and we have a whole team of nurses, aestheticians, chefs, coordinators, facility staff, and doctors to meet every need. Located in one of the most exclusive condominium towers in Cartagena, our Recovery Suites™ are just a few blocks from our offices, and all rooms offer stunning ocean views and balconies. Also included are breakfast, free Wi-Fi, cable television, room service, and in-suite nursing and therapy. Together we are redefining the plastic surgery experience, and can’t wait for you to visit us in gorgeous Cartagena.
Luxury
Comfort
Service
Care
Community
Renewal
Emotions After Surgery After surgery, you
Sore Tired Irritable
Tender Swollen Bruised
Anxious Restless Sad
Depressed Bloated Bored
Asymmetrical Numb Firm
All these emotions and physical symptoms are a normal part of the healing process. The best thing you can do for yourself is to take a deep breath and follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you are concerned about something that doesn't seem quite right, call your surgeon immediately. It will take time for the new, improved you to emerge. Be patient. Revisit this page so you remember that your feelings are to be expected.
Optimizing Results SCAR MANAGEMENT There is no such thing as “scarless� surgery. If there is an incision, there will be a scar. Dr. Campbell and Dr. Restrepo take great care to place incisions in the most discreet places possible and to close them using the most advanced techniques. Each individual will scar differently. Some people will heal with barely a trace of an incision mark while others may be susceptible to darker or raised scars. Scars have a long healing cycle. You will see remarkable changes in your scars during the first 3 months, but you will not know what a scar will ultimately look like for 12 to 24 months after surgery. Scars take a long time to mature and become less noticeable over time.
Sun Protection The sun ages skin by breaking down collagen and drying out skin. Sun damage causes wrinkles, pigmentation, and sagging. Water Proper hydration greatly influences skin quality and overall health. Reduce Stress Stress causes your face to form wrinkle and scowl lines that can become permanent. Sleep Sleep allows your body to recharge, and makes you more alert and sharp. We all look better when well rested. Healthy Diet and Exercise Being overweight makes people look older and can stretch out the skin and tax the body. Exercise builds muscle tone and decreases body fat for increased health and a lean appearance.
SCAR CARE PROGRAM Hydration - Antibiotic ointment first 48 hours Adhesive Tapes - Limit motion and tension Sunscreen (SPF 30) - Sun increases pigmentation
Tourism Services OLD TOWN
BEACHES
CITY TOURS
BOCAGRANDE
ISLAND TOURS
NIGHTLIFE
Relax, Enjoy, Renew LAND ACTIVITIES
BOATING
SPANISH LESSONS
WATER SPORTS
NATIONAL AVIARY
SHOPPING
BOCAGRANDE, CARTAGENA DE INDIAS
OLD TOWN, CARTAGENA DE INDIAS
REAL PATIENTS BREAST LIFT
BREAST AUGMENTATION
New York, USA
Geneva, Switz erland
Los Angeles, USA
Was hington DC, USA
LIPOSUCTION
TUMMY TUCK
Los Angeles, USA
Melbourne, Australia
London, England
Ams ter da m, N e the rla nd s
Delaware, USA
New York, USA
Toront o, Canada
New Jersey, USA
Montreal, Canada
Miami, USA
Houston, USA
Cayman Is lands
REAL RESULTS MOMMY MAKEOVER
Vanc ouver, Canada
Houston, USA
Aruba
Trinidad & Tobago
BRAZILIAN BUTT LIFT
RHINOPLASTY
FACELIFT
C op e nh ag e n, De nm ar k
New Jersey, USA
Chicago, USA
New York, USA
Toront o, Canada
Las Vegas, USA
Miami, USA
Peru
Atlanta, USA
New York, USA
Houston, USA
Los Angeles, USA
Bocagrande , Cra 3 No. 4 -21 Of 302 Cartagena de Indias Colombia (+57) 312 545 5569 (+1) 305 848 1909 info@premiumcareps.com
www.premiumcareplasticsurgery.com