Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why should I choose Dr. Atwood to do my surgery?

  • With 25 years experience doing plastic surgery, he is the most experienced Plastic Surgeon in Northwest Arkansas.
  • He is an artist.  Plastic surgery is as much art as science.
  • His results look natural.
  • He makes every effort to communicate clearly so he understands what you want and you understand what to expect.
  • He is very well respected by his fellow physicians in Northwest Arkansas.  Ask your family doctor which plastic surgeon he or she would recommend.

Why should I wait to see Dr. Atwood ?

  • He is worth the wait.
  • Too often we see women who did not wait and they wind up coming here to have their surgery “redone” because they are not happy with the results.  They tell us “I wish I had just waited to see him in the first place.”

What is the cost for an initial consultation with Dr. Atwood?

  • Cosmetic consultations are $125 and this amount is deducted from the fee for surgery.
  • Reconstructive procedure consultations would be covered by your insurance so you would need to pay your usual co-pay unless you have not met your deductable.

What should I expect at my initial consultation?

 

  • To visit with Dr. Atwood in the comfort of our consultation room to get acquainted and discuss  your medical history, current health, medications you are taking
  • He will listen to you explain the change you are seeking and answer all of your questions
  • A thorough explanation by Dr. Atwood of the procedure you are considering, whether or not it would be a good choice for you and possible risks
  • An exam of the area of concern which could include taking photos if that will aid in discussion
  • To visit with our patient coordinator to discuss fees and scheduling
  • No pressure to make a decision that day. We understand you may need time to consider and make a decision you feel comfortable with.

How long will it take to recover from my surgery?

  • That varies with the procedure and will be discussed at your private consultation.  You will likely need to avoid strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks to avoid a problem with post-op bleeding.

  How can I prepare for surgery?

  • Avoid anything containing asprin, ibuprofen, herbs, herbal  teas, diet pills or herbs and excessive amounts of energy drinks.  All of these increase your risk for a problem with anesthesia or bleeding.  Dr. Atwood wants you to avoid these for 2 weeks prior to and after surgery.  See list. 
  • Excellent nutrition helps you achieve optimal healing. 
  • Stop smoking if possible.  Risk of wound healing and pneumonia is higher among smokers.  Have a mammogram within the last 10 months if you are over the age of 35 and want to have surgery on your breasts.

ABOUT DR. ATWOOD

Is he board certified?

  • Yes, he is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. 

Where did he train?

  • Air Force Academy for his Bachelor of Science Degree
  • University of Mississippi for his Medical Degree
  • USAF  Medical  Center  Keesler  for  his General  Surgery Residency where he was Chief Resident his last year
  • Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center for his Residency in Plastic Surgery

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Will insurance pay for my surgery?

  • Insurance does not pay for cosmetic surgery.
  • If your surgery is considered medically necessary and is listed as a covered procedure by your insurance policy then it will pay based on your insurance contract.
  • You will be responsible for your deductable and the percentage your insurance does not cover.
  • Call your insurance company and ask if you are unsure which surgeries your policy covers.

Is Dr. Atwood in my insurance network?

  • Dr. Atwood is a preferred provider for the following insurances
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Tyson Cigna (this is the only Cigna)
  • Qual Choice
  • Limited Medicare (past patients and newly diagnosed Breast Cancer patients only)

ABOUT BREAST AUGMENTATION  

1. Are breast implants safe?

    • The FDA released silicone gel breast implants for general use November 2006.
    • Scientific studies did not ever demonstrate a connection between silicone gel  breast implants and any other disease.
    • Saline filled breast implants were not ever limited by the FDA.

    2. How old do I have to be to have breast augmentation?

      • The FDA says you must be 18 years old to have breast augmentation with saline implants and 21 if you want silicone gel implants.
      • It is wisest to wait until your breasts have fully developed.  That age varies from woman to woman.  After  your breasts have been stable in size for 12 months, and you feel they are too small then it is a good time to have implants placed.
      • The hormones of pregnancy do cause an increase in breast size.  This happens with implants in as well.

      3. Could I still breast feed if I have breast implants?

        • Implants placed under the muscle should not interfere with breast feeding.  Some women are not able to breast feed and have never had implants.