What is the Recovery Time?
Most surgical procedures that are performed in an operating room will cause swelling and bruising and will have sutures that require care for the first week or two. During this period, you’ll be able to see, move about, and accomplish a lot, but you will probably have at least one “black” eye. You will be asked to avoid strenuous activities for the first week or two, and if necessary, you will be given more specific instructions on travel, bathing, and post-op care. Your healing will be dependent on which procedure you are having done, your compliance to pre and post-operative instructions, and your overall health. We will do our very best to make sure that you have all the information you and your caregivers will need to provide the best care possible. We are always here to help and available if any questions or concerns arise.
How Much Will This Cost Me?
At your consultation, once we know the particulars of your surgery and insurance, we will strive to give you an estimate of the costs of your out of pocket costs. Please understand that if you are planning to file your surgery with insurance, it is entirely your responsibility to ensure that we are in network for your plan and that if referrals are required for your plan from your PCP, it is up to you to get them to our office. Your procedure will be billed under your medical insurance (not your vision insurance). As far as your financial responsibility is concerned, this is dependent upon your specific plan, whether or not you have met your deductible, and your co-insurance (if any). We will take care of getting prior-authorization and pre-determination completed before your operation whenever possible.
Do Your Doctors Use Lasers?
Yes, our doctors use a laser in many but not all of their operations.
Where Do Your Doctors Operate?
Our doctors operate at many of the surgery centers and hospitals in the Denver metro area. Dr. Fante also operates in Goodland, Kansas.
Are Your Doctors in-network With My Insurance?
We are contracted with dozens of insurance plans, but you would be wise to call your insurance company to verify.
Will My Insurance Cover the Cost of the Procedure?
You may be subject to a deductible depending on your plan. If you have already met your deductible, you will be subject to co-insurance which varies from plan to plan. Please call your insurance company to make sure you understand what will be expected of you.
Is There a Charge for the Initial Visit?
If you have insurance, you will be responsible for your specialty co-pay. If you do not have insurance, you will be responsible for a $200 fee plus a small fee for any special tests or photographs taken. If our doctors deem it necessary to do a procedure at that time, there will be an additional fee involved.
Is Dr. Fante Board Certified?
Yes, Dr. Fante is double board certified.
How Long Has Dr. Fante Been Performing This Type of Procedure?
Dr. Fante has tremendous experience in all facets of oculofacial plastic surgery and been in practice for over 20 years He is involved in the educational community and is well aware of the latest technologies. He is open, honest and always willing to answer any specific questions in your consultation.
Will I Need a Driver?
You will not need a driver for most office appointments. However, virtually all surgeries performed in the office, surgery center, or hospital will be accomplished under sedation, and you will not be able to operate a vehicle afterwards. Please plan to have a driver for those occasions.
Will I Have to Take Time Off of Work?
Most people, depending on their surgery, will return to work in 7 – 14 days. Some more, some less. This is very dependent upon the type of surgery you need, your occupation, and your compliance to post operative instructions. For some smaller repairs, you might be able to return to work in 2-3 days, particularly if you can work with bruises on your face.
Will There Be Scars?
All incisions leave scars. We’re all different when it comes to scarring, and it’s partly determined by our heredity. Some of us form small, faded scars rather easily. Others form larger, more pigmented scars. This is not always easily predictable. However, any prominent scars can be treated by minor follow-up surgery. Our doctors make the incisions as small as possible, and use natural lines whenever possible so that scars are generally discreet and hidden for the best overall outcome for you.