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How to Get an Ultrasound
before
Plastic Surgery
One of the tools in planning plastic surgery is ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound technology enables Sydney Plastic Surgeon Dr Mark Kohout to assess the treatment area accurately and helps deliver an optimal result.
If you are considering plastic surgery, Dr Kohout and his team are here to assist you through every step of the process, starting with your ultrasound appointment.
What is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasound does not use ionising radiation, making it a safer option for patients. During an ultrasound examination, a transducer is placed on the skin, which emits sound waves that travel through the body. These sound waves bounce off the internal organs and tissues, creating echoes that are then converted into images by a computer.
Compared to other imaging techniques, ultrasound has several advantages. It is non-invasive, painless, and does not require any special preparation. Ultrasound also provides real-time images, allowing your surgeon to assess the treatment area dynamically. Additionally, ultrasound is more cost-effective than other imaging methods, making it a more accessible option for patients.
The Importance of Ultrasound in Plastic Surgery Planning
Before any surgical procedure, the plastic surgeon must have a clear understanding of your anatomy and the specific areas that need to be addressed. Ultrasound imaging provides detailed information about the underlying tissues, including skin, fat, muscle, and blood vessels. This information helps Dr Kohout to assess the treatment area and develop a personalised surgical plan.
Using ultrasound for preoperative planning offers several benefits:
- It allows Dr Kohout to identify any potential issues or anatomical variations that may affect the surgical outcome.
- Ultrasound imaging helps your surgeon to determine the specific location and extent of the treatment area, making sure surgery is targeted and effective.
- By using ultrasound to plan the surgery, your surgeon can reduce the risk of complications and increase patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Using Ultrasound Imaging for Plastic Surgery Procedures
Ultrasound imaging is used in planning a wide range of plastic surgery procedures. Some of the most common procedures that may benefit from ultrasound imaging include:
- Abdominoplasty for Diastasis Recti Repair: Ultrasound is used to assess the condition of the abdominal muscles and the amount of excess skin and fat. This information helps your surgeon to plan the incision location and the extent of tissue removal. For Medicare Item Number 30175 you will need to show a diastasis (gap) of at least 3cm.
- Breast Implant Surgery: Ultrasound helps assess the size and shape of the breast, as well as the thickness of the skin and the location of the chest muscles. This information is essential for selecting the appropriate implant size and placement.
- Breast Implant Revision Surgery: Ultrasound is helpful to check for implant damage and positioning – but can deliver false positive and negatives.
- Liposuction & Body Surgery: Ultrasound imaging allows identification of areas of excess fat pockets and determine the most suitable approach for removal. It also helps assess skin thickness – avoid damaging underlying blood vessels and nerves.
- Facial Surgery: Ultrasound imaging provides detailed information about the underlying facial structures, including the skin, fat, and muscles. This information helps plan the incision location and the extent of tissue repositioning.
In each of these procedures, ultrasound imaging plays a role in helping your surgeon plan the surgery and tailor it to the individual patient’s needs.
Where to Get an Ultrasound in Sydney
Address: Suite 6.02, Level 6, 309 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000
Phone: (02) 9290 2122
Website: sufw.com.au
Preparing for Your Ultrasound Appointment
To prepare for your ultrasound appointment, wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area. You may be asked to remove jewellery or other accessories that could interfere with the ultrasound imaging. Your doctor will provide you with any necessary paperwork or documentation to complete before the appointment.
During the ultrasound examination, you will lie on a comfortable table while the technician applies a gel to the treatment area. The gel helps to conduct the sound waves and create clear images. The technician will then move the transducer over the treatment area, capturing images from different angles. The entire process is painless and typically takes less than an hour.
What Happens After Your Ultrasound Appointment?
After your ultrasound appointment, Dr Kohout will review the report from the Sonographer (Ultrasound Technologist) and use it to plan your surgery. He will take into account your individual anatomy, desired outcomes, and any potential risks or complications. Dr Mark Kohout will then discuss his recommendations with you during a follow-up consultation. This consultation is an opportunity for you to ask questions, express concerns, and learn more about the next steps in your plastic surgery journey.
FAQs about Ultrasound for Plastic Surgery
Is ultrasound imaging safe?
Yes, ultrasound imaging is a safe and non-invasive procedure that does not use ionising radiation. It is considered one of the safest medical imaging techniques available.
How long does an ultrasound appointment take?
An ultrasound appointment typically takes less than an hour, depending on the specific area being imaged and the complexity of the case.
Do I need to do anything special to prepare for my ultrasound appointment?
In most cases, no special preparation is needed for an ultrasound appointment. However, your doctor may provide you with specific instructions based on your individual case.
Will I feel any pain during the ultrasound examination?
No, ultrasound examinations are painless. You may feel some pressure from the transducer, but it should not cause any discomfort.
How soon after my ultrasound appointment can I have surgery?
The timing of your surgery will depend on several factors, including the availability of your plastic surgeon and the specific nature of your case. Dr Kohout will discuss the timeline with you during your follow-up consultation.
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Dr. Mark Kohout
Dr. Mark Kohout is a highly qualified specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 25 years of experience, based in central Sydney.
Trained in Great Britain, Australia, and the U.S., he co-founded Australia Plastic Surgery. Specializing in breast, genital, and male breast surgeries, he is a certified member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS).
Dr. Kohout has appeared in media like The Biggest Loser and has published several articles in his field.
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