Question 1

What is the difference between a Plastic Surgeon and a Cosmetic Surgeon?

Accepted Answer

A board certified Plastic Surgeon has undergone extensive training that includes at least three years of general surgery plus a plastic surgery fellowship or completion of an accredited plastic surgery residency program. These surgeons have been trained in the scope of plastic surgery, which includes certification to perform all facets of aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, and are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
 
A Cosmetic Surgeon has not necessarily been trained as a Plastic Surgeon, nor necessarily been certified by the ABPS. The training is not standardized, and may only include weekend or online courses as preparation to perform cosmetic procedures. Typically, they are not granted privileges at hospitals and perform surgeries in their offices or surgery centers, which can be unsafe depending on the extent of the surgery and anesthetic need.
 
When it comes to optimizing results and maintaining patient safety, it is important to know how your surgeon has been trained and who has certified them. The ABPS ensures that all Plastic Surgeons meet the high standards of excellence in order to earn the title of being “board certified”.
 
Dr. Julia C. Stevenson is a board certified Plastic Surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
 
For more information, please read this article in Smart Beauty Guide by Michael Edwards, MD, FACS:
https://www.smartbeautyguide.com/news/news-and-trends/plastic-surgeon-cosmetic-surgeon-s-difference/#.W3yCIa3Mwkg(https://www.smartbeautyguide.com/news/news-and-trends/plastic-surgeon-cosmetic-surgeon-s-difference/#.W3yCIa3Mwkg)

Question 2

What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetic surgery is elective surgery that enhances or reshapes structures of the body to improve the appearance and boost confidence.  Because it is elective, cosmetic surgery is usually not covered by insurance.
 
Reconstructive surgery is done to improve function and ability of the body affected by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors or disease. It is generally covered by most health insurance policies, although coverage for specific procedures and levels of coverage may vary greatly. Reconstructive surgery is deemed to be medically necessary to restore form and function to a body region or part that has been traumatically damaged.

Question 3

What can I expect from my consultation?

Accepted Answer

The consultation is a time for you to meet Dr. Stevenson, express your concerns & goals, learn about recommended treatment options and ask questions.  During this time your medical history will be reviewed, a physical examination will be performed followed by photography that will be confidentially held in your medical record.  Not only will Dr. Stevenson provide education on your concern and the recommended treatment, but she will also provide you with reliable resources so you may review at your leisure.  A lot of information is covered during these consultations and time may be needed to understand all that is discussed.  The goal is to educate and answer all of your questions for the best possible results.

Question 4

What financing options do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We participate in Cherry Financing and Care Credit.  Both are like health care credit cards where you will pay monthly based on the cost of your financed service.

Cherry Financing is for use solely at Cardinal Plastic Surgery.  You can see if you qualify without any affect on your credit score and you will pay monthly based on the cost of your financed service and the payment plan you choose.  See if you qualify by clicking here!(https://pay.withcherry.com/cardinalplasticsurgery?utm_source=practice&m=16916)

Care Credit is a healthcare credit card which can be used at any facility that accepts it. You can pay monthly based on the financed service and the payment plan you choose.  See if you qualify by clicking here!(https://go.carecredit.com/consumer/home?sitecode=CCCALDS2X)

Question 5

At which hospitals/facilities does Dr. Stevenson have privileges?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Stevenson has privileges at the following hospitals/facilities:
 
- Sentara Princess Anne Hospital
- Princess Anne Ambulatory Surgery Center
- Surgery Center of Chesapeake

Question 6

Do I need to fill out paperwork prior to my first visit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will be sent a link on your cell phone 5 days prior to your appointment to complete all information needed for a thorough medical examination to be performed.  If it is not completed, you will be sent subsequent reminder texts the day before your appointment and 1 hour before your appointment.  To ensure a timely visit, please complete this prior to your appointment or arrive 20 minutes before your appointment.  Please have your photo identification, insurance card and list of medications.

Question 7

Which insurances does Dr. Stevenson accept?

Accepted Answer

The following are insurances Dr. Stevenson accepts.  Please note that there are some plans within these insurances that don't cover her services. Please check with your insurance company on your particular plan coverage and benefits.
 
- Aetna
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Humana
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Optima Health
- Tricare

Question 8

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Please assist us with serving all patients better by keeping your scheduled clinic appointment.  If you are unable to do so, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance as this will make it possible for us to give your appointment time to another patient.