Plastic surgery is a personal decision. Learn from a MetroHealth expert about procedure options, safety, costs, and what to expect.
March 18, 2026
Contributed by: Robert Siska, MD / Plastic Surgeon
Thinking About Plastic Surgery? Here’s a Step‑by‑Step Guide
Having plastic surgery is a big decision. Some procedures can change how you look, while others help your body work better. Because the results can last a long time, it’s important to understand the process before you say yes.
Wanting to feel better about your appearance or fix a problem is normal, says MetroHealth plastic surgeon Robert Siska, MD. But you should always learn about the procedure and talk with an expert before making your choice.
“Sometimes you just want to restore parts of your body to how they were when they were younger or healthier,” he says. “That’s not an unreasonable thing to do. But you must make informed choices when considering a plastic surgery procedure.”
Here is his advice to help you with your plastic surgery journey.
Know Your Plastic Surgery Goal
Before choosing a procedure, think about why you want surgery. Dr. Siska suggests writing down your goals and any worries you have.
People choose plastic surgery for many reasons, such as:
- Fixing or repairing tissue damaged by injuries, illnesses or other conditions
- Improving how something works, like helping you breathe or see better
- Feeling more confident about how you look
- Reducing signs of aging
- Removing excess fat or skin after weight loss or pregnancy
“Some patients want to restore their appearance after an accident. Others need help healing after cancer treatment. Some people lose a large amount of weight and want excess skin removed,” he says. “The important thing is that you’re motivated by your own personal reasons. You should not be pushed toward this decision by other people or outside influences.”
Understand Your Procedure Options
MetroHealth plastic surgeons perform many types of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Some of the most common include:
Cosmetic Procedures
- Breast augmentation or reduction: Makes breasts larger or smaller
- Body contouring: Removes fat and tightens skin
- Eyelid surgery: Removes extra skin from your eyelids
- Facelift: Lifts and tightens facial skin
- Liposuction: Removes extra fat from areas like the stomach, arms, neck and thighs
Reconstructive Procedures
- Breast reconstruction: Uses implants after a mastectomy
- Hand surgery: Helps restore movement and function
- Scar revision: Helps make scars less noticeable
- Skin cancer reconstruction: Repairs skin after cancer removal
- Trauma reconstruction: Helps repair the body after accidents or burns
Minimally Invasive Options
- Botox: Injections that smooth wrinkles
- Chemical peels: Remove damaged skin
- Fillers: Add volume and reduce wrinkles
- Laser treatments: Help improve scars, sun damage and wrinkles
Schedule Your Plastic Surgery Consultation
If you’re considering plastic surgery, look for a surgeon who is board certified. This means the surgeon has proven skills and provides safe, high-quality care. All MetroHealth plastic surgeons are board certified.
Your first step is to schedule a consultation. This is your chance to learn about your options, ask questions and understand the risks and benefits.
“Knowledge is power. Coming to a consultation with questions is always a good thing,” Dr. Siska says. “I encourage patients to ask their surgeon about recovery and expected downtime. Be sure to ask your surgeon what you’ll need to do to have a successful result after your procedure.”
On your one-hour visit, you’ll meet with a MetroHealth nurse and one of our plastic surgeons. You can expect:
- A talk about your goals
- A review of your medical history
- A discussion about the risks and benefits
- Information about non-surgical options
- A physical exam (if needed)
- Time to ask questions
Know the Cost
The cost of plastic surgery can be confusing. Some cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance. You may need to pay for them yourself.
However, many reconstructive procedures are covered. A MetroHealth financial consultant can explain your insurance walk you through your options.
How to Prepare for Plastic Surgery or Treatment
Preparing for plastic surgery is like preparing for any operation. Dr. Siska suggests a few important steps:
- Don’t smoke. This helps your body heal better.
- Tell your surgeon about all medications and supplements you take, even vitamins and herbal products.
- Follow the instructions about eating and drinking before surgery. These rules keep you safe during the procedure.
On the day of your surgery, your care team —including your surgeon, nurses and anesthesiologist—will be there to help. After surgery, we may ask you to walk soon to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Recovery time depends on the procedure. You’ll have a follow-up visit within a week. We may also connect you with services like physical therapy.
Call your surgeon if you notice:
- Infection
- Redness
- Swelling
- Worsening pain
You should also plan for recovery time. Think about how much time you’ll need off work and what help you may need at home.
The MetroHealth Plastic Surgery Difference
MetroHealth offers hospital-based plastic surgery for both cosmetic and reconstructive needs. Our surgeons are board certified and fellowship trained. They work with other specialists, including skin and cancer doctors and trauma experts.
Your care team supports you every step of the way — from consultation through recovery.
Consultations are available at the following MetroHealth locations:
Ready to explore your options?
Call 216-778-4450 to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon or learn more at metrohealth.org/plastic-surgery.
Your Questions Answered
Q: Will I have scars after plastic surgery?
A: Yes, most surgeries leave a scar. Surgeons try to work from places that are harder to see, like in skin folds.
Q: How long do results last?
A: Results aren’t permanent, but they can last for many years. Healthy habits — like avoiding smoking, protecting your skin from the sun and keeping a stable weight — can help your results last longer.
Q: Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
A: Most plastic surgeries are outpatient, which means you can go home the same day. You might need to stay overnight if there are complications.
