Your facial surgery journey begins with Brighton Plastic Surgery, who will guide you every step of the way.
From your first consultation through to recovery and post-operative care, our team will ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident.
We understand that considering a procedure such as a facelift is a big decision. We’re here to make it as smooth and personalised as possible. Ready to take the first step? Let’s explore how we can help you with care and expertise.
How to book a consultation
The preferred first step is to contact Brighton Plastic Surgery online or email jacqui@plasticsurgeryaustralia.com and speak with our patient advisor, Jacqui. Alternatively, call our practice on (03) 9592 0522.
Jacqui will provide you with information about our practice and the process for arranging a consultation with Mr Mutimer.
Before arranging your initial consultation, we require a referral from your general practitioner. Once we have received the referral, we can then book your initial consultation.
Your first consultation
Your initial consultation will be with Mr Keith Mutimer
Mr Mutimer will discuss your aims, preferences, and reasons for considering surgery. He will thoroughly assess your face and discuss your surgical options.
Mr Mutimer will also explain what the surgery involves, surgical techniques, recovery expectations, and realistic outcomes.
This detailed conversation will include your past history, both medically and surgically. It’s always helpful to bring any information about previous surgeries or medical conditions with you.
You will view before and after photos from patients who have consented to making these available to you.
Meet our patient advisor
Following your consultation with Mr Mutimer, you will be introduced to his patient advisor, Jacqui.
Jacqui will provide you with a lot of initial information to help you decide your next steps.
This includes information on estimated costs, hospitals, timings and recovery expectations. Jacqui will also provide you with information on Mr Mutimer himself, and our process for assisting you with continuing your journey should you be interested in doing so after your initial consultation.
It’s important to note that many patients come to us with the impression or expectation that Medicare or their private health fund will cover some of the costs of their facial surgery.
However, there are very few circumstances where this is true. Almost all facial surgery is a full fee, paid by the patient.
We suggest you allow at least an hour for your initial consultation. Your consultation with Mr Mutimer is long and most patients have plenty of questions for both Mr Mutimer and Jacqui.
Once you have had time to consider all this information, Jacqui will be in touch to organise a further consultation if you are interested in having surgery.
Jacqui is always available to answer any questions in between appointments.
Your second consultation
If you are keen to continue this journey, you will meet with Mr Mutimer a second time
At this appointment, Mr Mutimer will confirm the surgery plan with you. He will go through the risks and possible complications associated with surgery and discuss your concerns or questions.
Pre-operative photos will also be taken. Mr Mutimer will also discuss and complete surgical consent with you at this time.
After you have seen Mr Mutimer, you will meet with our patient advisor again.
Jacqui will answer any questions you may have. She will also confirm a meeting time with you seven days after this appointment. It is at this time that surgery bookings, admission details and payments can be organised and confirmed.
You will also see one of our practice nurses who will discuss the preparation for surgery, recovery process, activity expectations and aftercare.
Preparing for surgery
Once you have made your decision to proceed with surgery, our patient advisor and practice nurses will be here to support you.
You will be armed with a wealth of information. This helps you prepare yourself for both the expectations of surgery itself and how to manage during recovery.
Support during the recovery phase includes what care you will need and who can assist with:
- Driving you home from surgery
- Supporting other family members (including furry ones!)
- Time off work and rest from activities like gym or sport
- Groceries, housework, and other errands
- Assistance with bathing, comfort during rest, etc.
Our patient advisor and nurses are here to answer any queries. Their goal is to help you feel confident and prepared for your surgery.
Your surgery day
On the day of your surgery, you’ll be admitted to either Cabrini Brighton or Linacre Private in Hampton.
You will typically stay in hospital for one or two nights, depending on the procedure you are having. When you leave the hospital you will have follow-up appointments with our rooms already organised. You will also know who to contact if you need assistance.
Post-surgery
After your surgery, you will return to the rooms for routine regular review appointments.
It is important to attend all these appointments to monitor your healing and optimise recovery.
In general, patients feel comfortable returning to some activities and being out in public from around two to three weeks after surgery. However, recovery times will vary between individuals depending on the procedure type.
Most patients will be able to return to all normal activities and lifestyle six weeks post-surgery.
The most significant recovery happens in the first six weeks. However, remember that residual swelling and numbness will continue to improve over the next three to six months.
In addition to medical care, a well-balanced diet plays a key role in your recovery process. Good nutrition can help speed up healing and boost your overall recovery. For more tips, check our blog on the importance of good nutrition during recovery.
Got further questions or want to get started?
We invite you to get in touch with Brighton Plastic Surgery
Contact Jacqui, our patient advisor, at jacqui@plasticsurgeryaustralia.com or reach out to us online.
Alternatively, call us for a confidential chat on (03) 9592 0522.
