Do I need a referral to see Dr Birch?
Yes, all patients are required to obtain a GP referral. This referral allows Dr Birch to process a rebate on consultations and bulk bill any follow-up visits to our clinic. Additionally, a GP referral is a mandatory requirement according to AHPRA guidelines for cosmetic procedures.
How do I know if surgery is the right option?
If you’re considering a specific procedure, the best way to determine if it’s right for you is to consult directly with a specialist like Dr Theo Birch. Begin by thoroughly researching the procedure you’re interested in—understanding its benefits, risks, recovery time, and potential results. This foundational knowledge will help you have an informed discussion during your consultation.
Dr Birch can provide a personalised assessment based on your unique health history, current condition, and desired outcomes. During your consultation, discuss your goals and expectations openly. Dr Birch will help you understand if the procedure aligns with what you hope to achieve and whether it’s realistic given your specific situation.
It’s also important to consider the potential risks and benefits, which Dr Birch will explain in detail. He can also discuss alternative treatments that might be more suitable for you. Additionally, understanding the recovery process and how it will fit into your lifestyle is crucial.
Overall, working closely with Dr Birch and asking any questions you may have will ensure that you make a well-informed decision that’s tailored to your individual needs and goals.
What happens after my consultation?
After your consultation with Dr Birch, you will be guided by either Dr Birch himself or one of our friendly nurses to the reception area. There, our Medical Receptionists will assist you. You will receive a formal, individualised quote following your consultation via email. The quote will address all associated fees, health fund information, hospital details, surgery timeframes, and the next steps, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what’s involved.
If you feel the need for a secondary consultation to discuss the procedure further or address additional questions, we encourage this. It’s important to us that you feel confident and well-informed before proceeding with any plastic surgery. Secondary consultations with Dr Birch, along with any follow-up appointments, including pre-operative and post-operative consultations, are bulk-billed with a GP referral.
For patients undergoing cosmetic procedures, there are specific post-consultation processes to follow. If this applies to you, our team will guide you through these procedures in accordance with AHPRA guidelines.
How many consultations do I need?
The number of consultations needed before undergoing a procedure with Dr Birch depends on the type of surgery. For a straightforward procedure like a skin lesion removal, one preoperative consultation is typically sufficient. This initial meeting will cover all necessary details about the procedure and ensure you’re well-prepared.
For more complex procedures such as cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, you will need at least two preoperative consultations. During the first consultation, Dr Birch will thoroughly discuss your goals, the procedure, and any related concerns. If you decide to proceed with the surgery, a second consultation will be scheduled. This follow-up meeting, which is usually shorter and provided at no additional cost, and allows Dr Birch to address any final questions and confirm all preparations before the procedure.
Will I need to be examined in my consultation?
During your initial consultation with Dr Birch, an examination of the treatment or surgery area is typically part of the process to provide an accurate assessment. However, the decision to be examined is entirely up to you, and you should feel comfortable throughout the consultation.
If you choose to proceed with surgery, Dr Birch will need to examine the specific area to ensure the procedure is appropriate and to gather all necessary information for planning. With your consent, preoperative photos will be taken to assist in surgical planning, monitor progress, and evaluate post-operative results. These images are securely stored in line with privacy policies and can be accessed by you upon request.
To ensure your comfort and privacy, robes are provided during consultations. You may also bring a support person with you, or if needed, request a female chaperone for additional comfort or cultural reasons. Dr Birch and his team are committed to treating each patient with respect and care, especially when addressing any concerns or discomfort about being examined.
What is the difference between a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and a ‘Cosmetic Surgeon’?
Understanding the differences between a plastic, reconstructive, and cosmetic/aesthetic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon is important for making informed decisions about your care.
A plastic, reconstructive, and cosmetic/aesthetic surgeon, such as Dr Birch, has undergone extensive training beyond the basic medical degree (MBBS). This includes an additional 7-10 years of specialised surgical training. Dr Birch has trained both locally and abroad to cultivate a wide range of surgical skills and knowledge aimed at providing his patients with the best possible outcome. He is across all aspects of plastic surgery with special interests in facial aesthetics, breast, and body contouring, along with skin cancer and hand surgery.
In contrast, a cosmetic surgeon may not have this extensive training. While anyone with a medical degree can perform surgery in Australia, the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons’ fellowship programs are the only surgical training programs officially recognized by the Medical Board. Therefore, a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr Birch, who is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, adheres to a strict code of conduct ensuring high standards of professional practice.
It is crucial to verify whether a surgeon is a registered member of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons to ensure they have completed the rigorous training and examinations necessary to be considered a qualified plastic surgeon. You can check the RACS register for confirmation.
What is the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons?
The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the leading organisation representing plastic surgeons in Australia. Members of ASPS are committed to adhering to the ASPS Code of Practice, which outlines the professional standards and ethical guidelines expected of its members
How do I book a consultation with Dr Birch?
To book a consultation with Dr Birch, please call our clinic on (07) 3844 6069 (Brisbane & Gold Coast) or (07) 5437 9333 (Sunshine Coast & Noosa) and our patient care team will be able to book your appointment for you.
You can also request a consultation with Dr Birch via our contact form.
Does Dr Birch offer virtual consultations?
Yes, Dr Birch offers virtual, online or phone consultations. For more information, please contact our team at Plastic Surgery Queensland on (07) 3844 6069 (Brisbane & Gold Coast) or (07) 5437 9333 (Sunshine Coast & Noosa).
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not permanent and typically have a limited lifespan. At some point, you might need additional surgeries to replace, upsize, downsize, reposition, or even remove the implants entirely. Generally, it is advised to replace breast implants every 10-15 years.
However, the longevity of breast implants can vary from patient to patient, and some implants may last up to 20 years before replacement is necessary. It’s important to monitor the shape and appearance of your breasts and to schedule regular check-ups to assess the condition of your implants. Dr Birch will provide guidance on the best practices for maintaining and evaluating your breast implants over time.
What implants does Dr Birch use?
Dr Birch prefers using Motiva breast implants due to their advanced technology and high standards of quality. Motiva implants are known for their innovative design, which includes features such as a highly cohesive silicone gel that maintains a natural feel and minimizes the risk of rupture. Their advanced surface technology helps reduce the likelihood of complications such as capsular contracture, providing a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing result for patients.
Additionally, Motiva implants offer a range of sizes and profiles, allowing for a customised approach to meet each patient's individual needs and preferences. Dr Birch appreciates the flexibility that Motiva implants provide, ensuring that patients can achieve their desired results with a lower risk of issues over time. By choosing Motiva, Dr Birch aims to offer his patients a durable and reliable option for breast enhancement or reconstruction.
