The Future of Cosmetic Surgery –
Q&A with Dr. Patti Flint
Phoenix Woman: Which procedures are the most popular or sought-after?
Dr. Patti Flint: Wrinkle filler injections are extremely popular because they can be provided in the office without sedation. The results are immediate, and there is little-to-no downtime. Liposuction and breast augmentation are also extremely popular.
PW: Where do you see the field in five, 10, 15 years? Are you anticipating new procedures or are patients tending more towards non-invasive, non-surgical procedures?
PF: There is fascinating and innovative work being done regarding transferring fat from one area of the body to another. Interesting work with stem cells and growth factors will ultimately allow us to transfer cells and manipulate those cells to develop into whatever type of tissue we desire. This will help in all forms of reconstructive surgery.
Skin care products are also advancing by leaps and bounds. Products are now available that can be used prophylactically to prevent skin cancer development and reverse skin damage. Long term, I believe we will look more youthful longer, without surgery.
PW: What are the procedures/treatments you are most excited about and why?
PF: I think my years of performing head and neck reconstruction prepared me very well for the aesthetic procedures I now perform. The field of facial rejuvenation has been improved a great deal. I find the results created now are much more natural and have greater longevity than past techniques. I also think physician-prescribed skin care programs can make a wonderful difference in a person’s appearance, and the products just keep getting better.
PW: How does being a woman in the field of plastic surgery help you with your patients?
PF: I face the same issues they face, as far as the changes that aging brings and the effects aging can have on one’s sense of well-being. I think and communicate the way most women do. I understand how clothes and bras should fit, and the frustrating challenges faced when they don’t fit well because of a body issue. While I have many male colleagues who are incredibly technically adept and empathic, I just think overall, it is easier and more comfortable for women to talk to a woman physician about their concerns regarding their appearance.
PW: What do you love about your field? Why do you enjoy being a plastic surgeon?
PF: When I first started my practice 14 years ago, I specialized in micro-surgical reconstruction of the head and neck, and breast reconstruction in cancer patients. It was challenging and interesting. Seven years later, I changed my focus to cosmetic surgery of the face, breasts, and body. I chose plastic surgery because it is so broad in scope and constantly changing.
PW: What questions should a patient ask when consulting with a plastic surgeon?
PF: You should ask your plastic surgeon how long she has been in practice. Practice makes for better outcomes. Asking how many times the surgeon has performed the procedure you are interested in is also important.
It is not well known by many prospective patients, but in Arizona and many other states, a doctor does not have to complete training in a plastic surgery residency program before they can promote themselves as a plastic surgeon. It is really startling, but those who have trained in obstetrics, general surgery, dermatology, and other specialties are performing facelifts and breast augmentations in Scottsdale very frequently.
The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties as providing complete training in the field of plastic surgery. So, it is not only important to ask if the surgeon is board certified, but also to ask by which board.
- Get more detailed information about cosmetic surgery in Scottsdale and Mesa.
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