Alexander Cosmetic Surgery

Alexander Cosmetic Surgery traces its beginnings to 1964, when Dr. Alexander Sr. started private practice in San Diego. The founder's son also practices there, and the practice describes its work as a family tradition. The practice calls itself a leader in facial rejuvenation and cosmetic plastic surgery in San Diego over the last 50 years and a top plastic surgeon in the city; these are its own claims.

A visit begins with a complimentary consultation. Photographs are taken for the medical record and, when relevant, for insurance. The office uses a touch-screen system for consultations, computer imaging and before-and-after photos. New patients and post-operative patients have separate reception areas, and the post-operative waiting room sits beside the underground parking garage.

The center runs three suites and holds accreditation from the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF). Anesthesia is available across the full range, from local to general.

Tummy tucks are one of the procedures the site describes in detail. The operation removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen and can repair weakened or separated abdominal muscles. It typically takes two to three hours on an outpatient basis. General anesthesia is recommended, while smaller tucks and revisions can be done with IV sedation. A tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although marks on skin removed below the belly button may be taken out. Patients need a driver to and from surgery and someone to stay with them for at least the first night, wear a compressive garment for at least four weeks, stop smoking well before surgery, and avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements beforehand. A preoperative appointment one or two weeks ahead covers lab work or medical evaluation, night-before instructions, anesthesia and aftercare. The quote is given after a consultation with Dr. Alexander.

Payment options include Cherry, a third-party buy now, pay later service, which the site says offers 0% APR plans subject to eligibility and interest-bearing plans at APRs as low as 5.99%. Payment plans are also available through partner CareCredit. Mommy makeover procedures for the breasts, abdomen and torso are planned individually and may combine breast rejuvenation, a tummy tuck and 360 contouring of the back and flanks.

The guiding idea is restraint: enhance a person's own look rather than make a dramatic change. The practice aims for predictable, natural results through simplified surgical steps and does not regard cosmetic surgery as art, believing natural beauty should be revealed rather than altered.

Antiques, unusual artifacts and original artwork fill the office.