FAQ

Do you have a question about plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery encompasses a great deal of procedures and this can often be confusing for patients who are unaware of what they may want. If you have questions about our treatments, or want to know more about our practice, we encourage you to peruse our FAQs. If you can’t find the answer to you queries please call us on (03) 9591 0422 or contact us online.

How can I reduce swelling after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)?

It is quite normal to experience some swelling and bruising following a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure. To help reduce swelling, you can wear a compression garment for around two weeks after treatment.

It can also be helpful to sleep on an incline for a few days following surgery. By keeping your upper body elevated and your knees bent at an angle, it is possible to minimise swelling.

We also recommend that you try some light activity, such as walking, as soon as you can after the procedure. This will help your overall recovery process.

How long does a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) take to heal?

When it comes to recovery, each patient is different. You will be provided with a compression garment after your procedure, which you will need to wear day and night for at least two weeks.

This compression garment will provide support for your abdomen as it heals and will help to minimise swelling and bruising. You can then wear the garment for an additional week or more during the day until you feel as though your body is returning to normal.

Light activity is encouraged as soon as possible following surgery, and most patients will return to normal daily activities within three weeks. More strenuous physical activity should be limited for at least six weeks.

Do tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) leave scars?

Yes, as with all surgery, you will notice a scar following a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).

In fact, the most common concern that patients have regarding the tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure is the length and placement of the surgical scar.

Every effort is made to allow optimum wound healing and to keep the scar hidden beneath normal clothing and swimwear. Mr David Morgan will discuss these details with you at your initial consultation.

How painful is a breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty)?

Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) surgery is performed under anaesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure itself. It is quite normal, however, to experience some tenderness and sensitivity following surgery.

Mr David Morgan will recommend pain medications to help manage any discomfort that you feel. You will need to wear a post-surgical bra for around two weeks for support while your breasts heal. Although every patient is different, it is usually possible to return to work within three weeks of breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) surgery.

Is breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) safe?

Yes.

As long as your breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) surgery is performed by a fully qualified and experienced surgeon, the procedure is both safe and effective.

As with all surgical procedures, however, complications can occur following a breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) procedure. Although rare, these possible complications include inadequate healing of the nipple, infection, unusual swelling, fever and discharge from the site of the incision. If you notice any of these side effects, we recommend that you contact Mr David Morgan as soon as possible.

Do I need a breast lift (mastopexty) or reduction (reduction mammaplasty)?

The decision to have either a breast lift (mastopexy) or a breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) procedure will depend on your specific needs and aesthetic goals. A breast lift (mastopexy) procedure is best suited to individuals who have been through pregnancy and breastfeeding and are unhappy with their droopy or saggy breasts, but comfortable with the volume of their breasts. The natural ageing process also often causes breasts to drop from the original position on the front of the chest, in which case a breast lift (mastopexy) is often a good solution. Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty), on the other hand, is a popular treatment for women who suffer from back, shoulder and neck pain caused by having particularly large breasts.

Can I get a breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) if I am overweight?

We generally recommend that you are at a healthy and stable body weight before undergoing breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty). If you have a BMI over 30, the risks associated with surgery tend to increase. It is also best to be at your ideal weight before surgery as if you decide to lose/gain weight after surgery, it may affect the results of your surgery.

Can you still breastfeed after a breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty)?

Yes, it is usually possible to breastfeed after undergoing breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) surgery. Modern surgical techniques help to preserve the structures of the breast, which means that it is likely that you will be able to breastfeed after the procedure. We do recommend, however, that you discuss any plans to breastfeed after surgery with Mr David Morgan when you come in for your initial consultation. He will be able to address any questions or concerns with you and advise you as to whether or not you should go ahead with the procedure before you have been through pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Is male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) safe?

As long as the procedure is performed by a fully qualified and experienced medical professional, male breast reduction (Gynaecomastia) is surgery can be an effective treatment option. Mr David Morgan has many years of experience in performing male breast reductions (gynaecomastia) and is happy to show you some before and after images of his previous patients. If you have any questions or concerns about the procedure and its potential risks, we recommend that you come in for a personal consultation with Mr David Morgan who will be able to discuss the surgery with you in detail.

What is gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia is a common condition that affects boys and men and causes the breast tissue to swell. The most common time for the condition to develop is during puberty, and in many cases, the issues resolves on its own over time. The condition can also occur in older men as the hormone levels in the body change. Men with gynaecomastia may notice that they have extra tissue around the nipples, or that their breast tissue appears more prominent than usual. They may also experience some pain and tenderness in the breast tissue.

What causes gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia may be caused by a number of factors. In some cases, the condition develops as a result of a hormonal imbalance, which causes the breast tissue to grow. The condition can also be caused by certain genetic conditions, various chronic diseases and some drugs. Men who use anabolic steroids often develop excess breast tissue — in fact, this is a well-recognised side effect of these types of drugs. Men who are overweight or obese also tend to appear to develop breasts because of an excessive deposition of fat on the chest, but this can usually be resolved by losing weight.

Do you need implants for a breast lift (mastopexy)?

Breast lift (mastopexy) surgery can be performed by filling the breasts back up with the use of implants, or by surgically lifting the breast tissue. In some cases, the procedure is performed with a combination of implants and surgical lifting techniques. When you come in for a consultation, Mr David Morgan will discuss your expectations and aesthetic goals with you before recommending the best course of treatment for your needs. It is important to note that whether or not you choose to have implants placed as part of your breast lift (mastopexy) procedure, you can expect some scarring on your breasts following surgery.

Is a breast lift (mastopexy) worth it?

The decision to undergo breast lift (mastopexy) surgery is deeply personal.  The procedure can also increase the comfort of wearing a bra and reduce poor posture, neck and back pain, and strap marks in individuals who have breasts that are full but droopy.

What can I expect after a breast lift (mastopexy)?

You will need to wear a post-surgical bra for around two weeks following your breast lift (mastopexy) procedure. This will provide support as your breasts heal and help to maintain a natural shape. You will need to avoid strenuous exercise for up to six weeks following surgery, but light activity is encouraged as soon as you are able. You can expect some minor scarring following breast lift (mastopexy) surgery. Complications are rare following breast lift (mastopexy) surgery, but Mr David Morgan will explain the potential risks to you before you undergo the procedure. In the case of complications, a longer recovery time can be expected.

What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. The condition occurs when DNA damage to the skin cells activates mutations or defects that cause the skin cells to multiply and form cancerous tumours. There are a number of types of skin cancer, the most common of which are basal cell skin cancer (BCC); squamous cell skin cancer (SCC); and melanoma.
What causes skin cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when mutations develop in the DNA of the skin cells, causing skin cells to grow rapidly and uncontrollably and form cancerous tumours. Basal cell skin cancer is caused by UV rays, as is squamous cell skin cancer. Squamous cell skin cancer can also be caused by exposure to certain chemicals, as well as some types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Melanoma can be caused by UV rays, although it can also be caused by other factors which are not clear.
What are some risk factors for skin cancer?
Some of the most common risk factors for skin cancer include a family history of the disease; exposure to certain chemicals; exposure to radiation; excessive and unprotected exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds; a history of severe sunburn; multiple moles; skin that is pale or freckled; skin that sunburns very easily; having a weak immune system; and having precancerous skin growths. If you have noticed any signs of skin cancer, we recommend that you come in for a consultation. Mr Morgan will advise you whether it is appropriate to manage your skin cancer under a local anaesthetic or if you need to go to hospital for a surgical procedure.
How long does otoplasty surgery take?

Ear correction, also known as otoplasty, generally takes between one and two hours to complete. In cases where a local anaesthetic is used, patients are able to return home on the same day as the procedure. Besides the surgery itself, the process of ear correction (otoplasty) will also involve a personal consultation with Mr David Morgan, who takes extra time to thoroughly discuss the details of the treatment. He will also take time to learn more about your particular expectations and aesthetic goals to ensure that you are happy with the results of your treatment.

How long does swelling last after otoplasty?

You can expect some swelling in your ears following an otoplasty procedure, which may last a few days. It is also normal to feel some tenderness, pain or numbness at the site of surgery. In order to minimise swelling and aid recovery, Mr David Morgan may recommend that you wear a bandage around your head for the first few days following surgery. You may also need to wear a head band at night while you sleep for several weeks in order to protect your ears while they heal. Before you undergo surgery, Mr David Morgan will explain the possible side effects and how best to manage them.

Is otoplasty painful?

You won’t feel any pain during the otoplasty procedure itself because an anaesthetic will be administered before the surgery begins. It is normal, however, to feel some discomfort following the procedure. You may feel some pain and itching while your ears heal. Mr David Morgan will recommend some medication to help manage any post-operative discomfort that you experience. He will also recommend that you don’t sleep on your side and that you avoid excessive force on your surgical incisions during your recovery. Any discomfort will resolve gradually over time.

How long does swelling last after a brow lift?
Although every patient is different, it generally takes between six and eight weeks for most of the post-surgical swelling to subside following a brow lift procedure. You should feel sufficiently recovered within around three weeks, at which point you should be able to return to most of your usual activities, such as socialising and office work. You may, however, need to avoid strenuous exercise for longer. Mr David Morgan will advise you when you are ready to resume your normal exercise regime when you come in for a follow-up appointment.
How long does brow lift surgery take?
Brow lift surgery generally takes between one and two hours to complete. In some cases, the procedure is combined with other facial procedures, such as eyelid surgery or a face lift. Depending on the surgical technique that is performed, you may need to stay in the hospital for a night or two following the procedure. Before treatment begins, Mr David Morgan will discuss the most suitable surgical technique with you, based on your particular needs and expectations.
What can I expect after brow lift surgery?
After your brow lift surgery is complete, you can expect some bruising and swelling in the area around the eyes. You may also experience a sense of numbness or tightness in the forehead. Once these side effects have subsided within a few weeks, you will notice the results of your surgery. You will notice a tighter, smoother brow, more elevated eyebrows, and your eyes will appear to be more opened than before, achieving a refreshed and more youthful appearance. Any drooping in the forehead, brow and eyebrows will be resolved and the overall appearance of your face will be enhanced.
How long does it take to recover from rhinoplasty?
Although every patient is different, most people will need to wear a nasal splint for around a week following the rhinoplasty procedure. At this point, it is normal to experience some bruising and swelling, which can take anywhere between a few days and two weeks to resolve. The final shape of your new nose will only become apparent once you have fully healed, which can take up to six months. We recommend that you avoid strenuous exercise for between three and six weeks after surgery. After around two to three weeks following surgery, you should be able to resume your usual social activities.
Does rhinoplasty change your face?
Yes. You are likely to notice a better balance of your facial features following a rhinoplasty. The shape, projection, position and prominence of your nose may be altered, which will achieve a more harmonious overall facial appearance. It’s important that you discuss your particular aesthetic goals and expectations with Mr Morgan when you come in for your initial consultation so that he can help you achieve a look that is line with your unique needs.
Does scar tissue go away after rhinoplasty?
One of the potential risks of rhinoplasty is poor wound healing or scarring, which results in scar tissue. Although rare, it is possible for scar tissue to develop within the nose or at the site of incision, which can lead to problems that affect the symmetry and shape of your results. Mr Morgan is, however, very experienced in performing rhinoplasty, and will explain any potential complications with you before the surgery. He will also let you know how to take care of your surgical wounds after the procedure, and explain how to reduce the risk of scarring.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants generally last between 10 and 20 years. In rare cases, they may need to be removed sooner as a result of complications, but generally, women will choose to replace their implants when they decide to change the size of their breasts, or otherwise improve their shape. Often, the implant removal procedure is combined with breast lift surgery, or the insertion of new implants of different shape and/or size to achieve the desired result. Mr David Morgan will guide you through the process of choosing implants that best suit your expectations and body type, to ensure that you are satisfied with the results of your procedure.
Can silicone breast implants cause cancer?
A very rare disease, known as anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) has been linked with reconstructive or cosmetic breast surgery with implants. Although no direct link has been established, it appears to occur in women with a genetic predisposition whose implants have developed a low grade bacterial contamination. ALCL is rare, developing in as little as one in 30 000 women with textured breast implants. In most cases, the disease is treated by removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue.
Why get breast implants?
There are a number of benefits to breast augmentation surgery, particularly for women who have always been unhappy with the size and shape of their breasts. The procedure is also often a good option for women who have been through pregnancy and breastfeeding or have simply noticed some of the visible effects of ageing. The procedure can effectively increase the size and overall fullness of the breasts, enhance the projection of the breasts, create more proportion between the breasts and improve the balance of your figure. The decision to get breast implants is very personal, and Mr David Morgan is available to guide you through the process.
What is the most common form of skin cancer?
The most common form of skin cancer is known as basal cell carcinoma. It is also the least aggressive form of the disease. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) grows only in its original location and does not tend to spread to other areas of the body. For this reason, once cancer has been surgically removed from the body, there is generally no need for further treatment.
What is the most aggressive form of skin cancer?
The most aggressive form of skin cancer is known as melanoma. It is also the least common kind of skin cancer. This type of cancer can spread to the surrounding lymph glands and other organs in the body if it is not detected early enough. In order to treat melanoma, complete surgical removal is required. In some cases, it is also necessary to remove a rim of healthy skin around the melanoma. Once the melanoma has been surgically removed, other tests can be arranged to determine whether or not cancer has spread to other areas of the body. These tests may include a sampling of the lymph glands, a chest x-ray, blood tests and CT scans, depending on the case.
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a slightly more aggressive form of skin cancer than basal cell carcinoma. This form of cancer may occur for reasons other than excessive sun exposure, including chronic exposure to certain types of chemicals. In some cases, SCC can spread to other areas of the body, including the lymph glands and other organs. In order to treat SCC, it is necessary to surgically remove cancer. It is also important to monitor the lymph glands in the surrounding areas to determine whether or not the disease has spread.
Why choose a Plastic Surgeon to perform your surgery?
In Australia, any doctor can call themselves a cosmetic surgeon, but only those that have completed at least a further 4 years of specialist surgical training in plastic surgery can call themselves a plastic surgeon.

Plastic surgeons are not only trained in cosmetic surgery, but also in reconstructive surgery such as burns care, wound and trauma repair, tumour removal and cancer reconstruction, correction of birth defects and acquired deformities, hand surgery, maxillofacial and craniofacial surgery, and microsurgery.

Plastic surgeons are certified as Specialists by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, the Australian Medical Council, and Medicare Australia, and operate only in accredited medical facilities.

Mr Morgan is a fully qualified plastic surgeon with a special interest in cosmetic & reconstructive breast surgery, cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery, and skin cancer management. In addition, he has undertaken further overseas training in breast and facial surgery in Vancouver and Toronto, Canada.

For more information, please visit the website of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons at plasticsurgery.org.au

Do I need a referral?

All presentations for medically-indicated procedures have always required a referral from your general practitioner. This allows you access to Medicare benefits, and the associated benefits from private health insurance.

For cosmetic procedures, all patients now also require a referral before they can be seen by Mr David Morgan. This is a new requirement following changes by the Medical Board of Australia to the ‘Guidelines for Medical Practitioners that perform Cosmetic Surgery’ that came into effect on 1st July, 2023.

Is it okay if I smoke before my surgery?
No. In fact, most elective plastic surgery procedures will actually not be undertaken until you have quit smoking because of the high risk of complications during your anaesthesia and in the post-operative period. Cigarettes contain many substances that are detrimental to wound healing and to your general health, so we recommend that you stop smoking where possible.
What can I do about my scar after surgery?
Once your wound has healed, we will provide you with advice on how to look after your scar to achieve the best possible result. This may include taping your scar, as well as gently massaging the area in order to soften and fade the scar more quickly. If your scar is in an area of the body that is exposed to the sun, you need to make sure that you protect it from sunlight as much as possible for up to 3 months. This will help to prevent permanent pigmentation.
What are widespread scars?
Widespread scars are scars that stretch sideways over time. They usually occur on the back, breast or abdomen because of the thickness of the skin in these areas of the body.
Do I need private health insurance?
Private health insurance is strongly recommended for several reasons. Firstly, health funds will cover most, if not all, of the costs associated with the operating theatre and hospital stay for procedures that are not purely cosmetic in nature. It frequently surprises patients what procedures are covered by health insurance, even if they might consider them ‘cosmetic’. Examples include breast reduction surgery, breast lift, abdominoplasty and eyelid reduction surgery in certain situations.

Secondly, even if your initial procedure was purely cosmetic in nature, any complication that you develop that requires a return to the operating room will usually be covered by the health funds.

Having up to date and appropriate private health insurance can provide you with peace of mind and a safety net when contemplating any sort of surgery.

What are the fees for my procedure?
The fees for any surgical procedure comprise the surgical fee, the anaesthetic fee, and the costs associated with the operating theatre and the hospital. When you are considering a surgical procedure with Mr Morgan we will be able to provide you with a written quote outlining these costs. You should also discuss your intentions with your health fund to ensure that you have the level of cover you expect.

Occasionally, there will be additional costs associated with need for post-operative surgical garments or the presence of an assistant surgeon. Once again, these will all be outlined prior to you committing to any surgery.

Your surgical fee includes the fee for the operation, all post-operative visits in hospital, and follow-up visits in Mr Morgan’s office until you have fully healed.

How long do I need to wait for an appointment?
This will largely depend on what you wish to discuss with Mr Morgan and your availability.

Urgent matters are always seen promptly, usually within a few days. Cosmetic surgery appointments are often available within 2-3 weeks. Non-urgent appointments will always be given the earliest available time, but in some cases this may stretch out to several weeks.

How do I make an appointment?

Please call our office directly on 9591 0422 to make an appointment.

During this call we will ask the reason for your visit so that we can book the appointment for the appropriate length of consultation time. This enables us to keep to schedule so that neither you nor any other patients are kept waiting excessively – a feature of the practice of which we are very proud.

Once your appointment has been made we will forward to you a letter of confirmation, a registration form, and directions on where to find us.

Alternatively, you can make a booking request via our enquiries form here

What can I expect at my appointment?
To begin with you can expect a warm welcome and a short wait. If you have not filled in a registration form, it is advisable to arrive a few minutes early so that this can be completed.

During your consultation with Mr Morgan he will discuss with you your goals and expectations from surgery and will perform a physical examination to help determine the best course of action. He will then give you an honest and thorough assessment of your situation and advise you on what he thinks is the right choice for you. We aim to make this consultation both informative and relaxed, creating an environment that allows you to come to the decision that is right for you.

There will be no pressure for you to come to any firm decision at this time. Sometimes, a second consultation at a later date is recommended so that you have time to consider your choices. Please feel free to bring along a support person to your consultation if you feel that this will help.

Will I have scarring after surgery?
There is always scarring after any form of surgery that involves a cut in the skin. What is more important is how visible this scar remains after an appropriate period of time for wound healing.

Plastic surgeons are trained in how to place scars in order to minimise their visibility, and in how to accurately repair tissues so that the scars are as minimal as possible.

Unfortunately, the most important factors in scar quality are your own genetic make-up and the location of the scars. Some skin types, especially those of Asian or African origin, have a greater chance of forming a more significant scar. The front of the chest, shoulders, and the back are also areas that can more commonly result in scars. These risks will all be discussed with you at your appointment.

Is there any forms I need to fill out before my first appointment?
If you are a new patient, save time on your appointment and download and complete our registration form before your first visit.