Frequently Asked Question - FAQs The Morgenstern Center for Orbital & Facial Plastic Surgery

American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Oculofacial Plastic Surgery American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery American Academy of Ophthalmology American Board of Ophthalmology American College of Surgeons (ACS) WillsEye Hospital Philadelphia, PA Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors 2022

Can I wear my contact lenses?

For smaller in-office procedures such as cyst removal patients may resume contact lens wear within a day or two. For upper eyelid surgery, this is usually extended to at least one week. Patients should wait closer to two weeks if they are having lower lid surgery.

Are there payment plans to help me pay for the procedures that I would like to have?

At the Morgenstern Center, we accept all major credit cards, Care Credit and personal checks. We have a multi payment plan that once you have booked your surgery you may make payments up to surgery day.

What time is my surgery?

You will receive a call prior to your surgery to let you know the scheduled start time for your surgery as well as what time you should arrive.

Do I need clearance from my doctor for surgery?

Unless you will be having an in-office procedure with local anesthesia, you will need to see your primary care doctor prior to surgery for a pre-operative history and physical exam.

How long will it take to heal?

Healing time varies depending upon what surgery you are having done and factors unique to each patient. In general, a certain degree of post-operative bruising and swelling is normal after most surgeries. These tend to peak at day 2 or 3 after surgery, and then slowly improve each day thereafter. It may take anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks for these changes to fully resolve. If sutures need to be removed, this is usually done around 7 to 10 days after surgery. While an incision is usually stable and “healed” at this point, it is important to note that wound healing actually extends over several weeks to months. In order to achieve the best result, sun protection and general skin care are essential. We recommend a Vitamin Regimen which promotes healing conditions. Factors such as skin type and smoking may delay healing.

Can I go back to work after my surgery?

This will vary depending upon the surgery you have done and what type of activity your job entails. Most patients are able to return to their jobs the day after surgery; some patients may return in about a week. If your job requires physical activity, you should note that you will be limited to only light physical activity with no heavy lifting during the first week. Please discuss work concerns prior to your procedure so we may provide proper support.

Can I go to the gym after my surgery?

In general, we limit patients to light activity only with no heavy lifting for at least the first week following surgery. Depending on the surgery, some patients may resume light aerobic activity during the first week.

What qualifications are important to look for in a person who does Botox?

Botox treatment is an art not a product. It is not difficult to administer the medicine but it does take experience and years of knowledge to know the correct treatment plan for a patient. Injectable Safety is very important and you should do your research before being injected. In general, facial plastic surgeons, general plastic surgeons, dermatologists, ophthalmologists and oral maxilla-facial surgeons carry these qualifications. This your Face we are talking about and a much too important to subject to let just anyone treat or to “bargain shop” for the best price. Interview your potential injector on their style and what treatment protocol would best fit your goals.

When can I start wearing makeup again?

In general, most patients are able to resume wearing makeup approximately one to two weeks following surgery.

Can the "issue"(chalazion, cyst, mole, etc.) be taken care of the day of my consult?

Typically, procedures done in-office will need to be scheduled on a later date, separate from the consult visit. The reason for this is that it is difficult to assess the amount of time necessary for a procedure until the consultation takes place. In addition, certain procedures require insurance pre-certification and this often cannot be done on the same day.

What is a Visual field test and where can I get one done?

A Humprey’s Visual Field test is an in-office test which evaluates a patient’s peripheral vision. These tests help demonstrate and quantify the amount of functional impairment a patient is experiencing due to droopy eyelids, excess eyelid skin, or droopy eyebrows. Along with photographs, insurance companies use these tests to determine whether a patient’s surgery will be considered a functional repair and therefore covered. Most optometrists and comprehensive ophthalmologists offer these tests in their offices.

Can I drive after my procedure?

In most cases patients may drive the next day. Detailed instructions specific to you and your surgery will be given you before and after the surgery.

Is there a lot of pain after surgery?

Most of the surgeries we perform are well tolerated and require only Tylenol for discomfort during the immediate post operative period. In certain circumstance, stronger pain therapies will be prescribed which would be discussed prior to those procedures.

What are the risks of surgery?

The risks of every procedure will be reviewed with you at your consultation. Any specific concerns you may have regarding the risks of surgery would be addressed prior to your procedure.

What is plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery originates from the Greek word plasticos which means to sculpt or shape. The term is often misunderstood to mean "cosmetic" or unnecessary surgery but the art of plastic surgery is often applied to patients battling cancer, recovering from trauma or even having difficulty seeing from normal age related changes. We also use plastic surgery to help address unwanted facial or neck changes that occur overtime.

Does my insurance cover plastic surgery?

During your visit your surgeon will make recommendations for you to help address your concerns. Whether these procedures are covered by insurance depends solely on the insurance plan you have chosen for yourself. If an insurance plan does not cover the surgery recommended that does not mean that the surgery is unnecessary. It only means that the plan you have chosen does not cover the surgery that you may need. Do not choose a treatment because it is covered by your plan, choose a treatment that is right for you. If your insurance does not offer coverage for what you need, please ask our medical staff about payment plans and options to help you achieve your goals comfortably and safely.

Are all Oculo-facial surgeons certified?

NO. There are physicians who practice oculoplastic surgery or refer to themselves as oculoplastic surgeons but this does not mean that they have passed the requirements of the American Society of Oculofacial Plastic Surgery (ASOPRS). In order to be certified by ASOPRS one must be awarded a fellowship by ASOPRS, write a thesis approved by ASOPRS, and then pass the written and oral board exams administered by ASOPRS.

How much does a Botox treatment cost?

At the Morgenstern Center we charge per session. Our Aesthetic nurse will be happy to discuss this novel approach to Botox therapy that allows us to ensure that you look the best that you can.

Schedule Your Consultation

At The Morgenstern Center for Orbital and Facial Plastic Surgery, you will find innovative treatment options and a commitment to excellence. Let Dr. Kenneth Morgenstern guide you on your path to wellness by creating a personalized treatment plan to optimize your results.


Wayne, PA Office:
123 Bloomingdale Ave Suite 102
Wayne, PA 19087

Lancaster, PA Office:
606 Community Way
Lancaster, PA 17603

Call Today 610.687.8771 or Schedule Using Our Form Below

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