Endoscopic surgery, or endoscopy, is one of the newest plastic surgery techniques. It allows surgeons to operate with fewer conspicuous incisions, reducing obvious scars, and can result in shorter recovery times.
The University of Michigan is a nationally recognized leader in reconstructive surgery. Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons and medical specialists guides patients through every step of the endoscopic plastic surgery process to ensure the best results possible.
Is Endoscopy Right for You?
Endoscopic plastic surgery has been used in orthopedic surgery, urology and gynecology for decades. Now, due to technological improvements, plastic surgeons use endoscopy for many cosmetic procedures, including face lifts, forehead lifts, abdominoplasty and breast augmentation. Endoscopy is also used in some reconstructive procedures.
Best Candidates
Endoscopy is best for patients who are otherwise in good health, without active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions. Your surgeon will consult with you to determine if endoscopy is the best surgical choice for you, based on your physical condition, the kind of procedure you are having done and the desired results.
About the Procedure
Your surgeon will insert an endoscope (a tubular probe fitted with a tiny camera and bright light) through a small incision. This lets the surgeon view the body's internal structures on a viewing screen while moving the tube of the endoscope through the surgical area. The surgeon will insert additional surgical instruments such as scalpels, scissors, or forceps through different incisions to perform the operation.
Your Consultation
If you’re interested in endoscopy, we’ll first have you come for a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and the long-term benefits. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation, you should expect to:
- Provide a complete medical history. Include information about: any previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and all medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
- Have your surgeon to conduct a physical examination.
- Discuss possible risks and complications.
Surgery
Preparing for Your Surgery
After your consultation and decision about surgery, we will give you pre-operative information that explains everything you should do and know before your procedure. Your surgeon will instruct you on how to prepare. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery. You also may want to make arrangements for someone to help you for a day or two while you heal.
Anesthesia
You'll remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In most cases, we use general anesthetic so that you will sleep throughout the procedure, although local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is also an option for some patients.
Recovery
It’s very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer your questions or concerns.
Location
Your procedure will take place in the University of Michigan Hospitals state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. Most endoscopic plastic surgery is outpatient.
We conduct all pre-operative and post-operative visits at Domino’s Farms where our patients enjoy personalized care in a private office atmosphere.