Most plastic surgery procedures can be performed out of state, and in fact it is not uncommon to explore your options by searching around the country for your preferred physician. Most might find undergoing cosmetic surgery out of town more appealing due to the ability of being able to recover privately and out of the eyes of family and friends.  Confidentiality is key, and the SHAW Center ensures a customized and comfortable recovery period based on your specific needs and wishes.

Simple Steps
The process for out-of-town patients is made as seamless as possible when going through our surgical center. First, have a friend or spouse help you take photos of the areas you’re concerned with, and send them via email at info@theshawcenter.com, which will go directly to Dr. Shaw for review.
Following this you will want to schedule a phone consultation to voice your concerns, hear out Dr. Shaw’s recommendations, as well as discuss recovery plans.
Shortly after, your patient coordinator with help you in scheduling your surgery date along with pre and post-operative appointments.

Travel With A Friend
While maintaining your privacy during recuperation is essential throughout this process, making sure you have your spouse, a close friend or a family member by your side is also extremely important. Depending on the surgery, you may not be able to do everything yourself the first couple of days right after the procedure so having someone to assist you will allow you to fully focus on recovering.

What To Pack
Unless specifically recommended otherwise by Dr. Shaw, typically wearing loose-fitted clothing is recommended after your surgery. No need to pack any muumuus, but relaxed fits and sweatpants are ideal being that they’re extremely easy to get on and off. 

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Preparation and the physical surgery are two processes we typically pay close mind to. However, the post-surgery phase and recovery process is just as important in order to ensure the best results. The SHAW Center is committed to making sure your consultation, procedure and care afterwards is as comfortable as possible, and that’s why we want to offer you the best tips and suggestions for at-home care.
When anticipating any cosmetic procedure, there are certain recovery basics that go without saying when it comes to preparing for healing. First and foremost, make sure you have a relaxed and pleasant environment to return back to once the procedure is complete. Ideally, having someone who can help you through your recovery is also essential.
Medication
Depending on which type of procedure you are undergoing, you will be typically be prescribed a pain medication alongside an antibiotic to relieve any aches you may experience for the first few days. It’s ideal to fill these prescriptions and have them on hand a few days ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about them when you should be resting post procedure.
Ice, Ice Baby
In case of any expected inflammation or bruising, reusable gel ice packs will aid in relieving any pain. These are key accessories to have on hand, and several may be necessary.
Aquaphor
It’s not unusual to experience potential dryness and redness of the skin post-surgery. This is obviously temporary but in the meantime moisturizing with Aquaphor will help subside these effects. Since this particular product is thicker than most moisturizers, you won’t find yourself having to reapply as frequently.
Bendable Straws and Pillows
The first couple of days after your surgery are the most critical, and anything you can do to avoid excess moving is best. Make sure you have a variety of pillows in different shapes and sizes for support and to assure that you’re not straining for comfort. Bendable straws are also a nice afterthought, as they enable you from having to overexert when you’re hydrating. If you have someone to feed you grapes, that’s also a plus.
Soups and Broths
While you may find that you’re starving after your procedure and craving a large meal, try to opt for something simpler, such as soup. This will be easy to digest and will calm any nausea you may be having as a symptom afterwards.
Comfy Pjs
Yay! Finally, you have an excuse to wear your snuggie for consecutive days straight without being judged. Take advantage of this downtime by ensuring that you’re dressed comfortably. It’s amazing how something as simple as soothing sweatpants can relax you.
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Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful processes a woman can experience. Not only does it heighten your senses, bolster your self-confidence and gift you with glow, but it can improve your overall health too.
While post-pregnancy can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be difficult to find even just five minutes out of your busy mommy schedule to take care of yourself. Your body goes through immense changes during pregnancy, most of which can benefit both you and the baby. However, some of these changes can also have adverse effects once you’ve given birth.
Your skin’s elasticity improves while you’re carrying, but this can also leave behind spider veins, loose skin and weakened abdominal muscles. You may also notice a change in your breasts as they begin to sag. This is all normal but it doesn’t mean you have to live with it.
“Fit”ting it into your day
Finding an effective workout routine is step one. The general rule of thumb is to begin your fitness plan six weeks after giving birth. Working kegelsinto your series is imperative in improving and repairing your pelvic muscles and planks and crunches will target that hard to target tummy fat. Factoring these workouts into your every-day routine will only take up a small but well-deserved time out of your day.
And of course there’s always stealing some time away to head to the spa for a much-needed day of rest and relaxation!
There are lots of post-pregnancy fitness and beauty regimes you can adopt, and these can all be supplemented with our body sculpting procedure. Dr. Shaw understands the sacrifice women make with their bodies throughout pregnancy, and he also comprehends that returning your body to its original state, if not enhancing it, is also important.
Dr. Shaw’s “Beauty after Baby” procedure can include liposuction, tummy tuck, breast augmentation and/or lift, labiaplasty and spider vein therapy. These self-image enhancers will not only restore your vitality but will also give you the added confidence boost to take on being a super mom. Who says you can’t also look good pushing a stroller?
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            Although the majority of treatments provided in The SHAW Center Spa demand little to no downtime, more invasive procedures such as breast augmentations and face lifts require more rest and relaxation.  It’s essential to understand and be prepared for recovery post procedure in order to remain comfortable and obtain optimal results. 
            Requirements for recovery vary from each procedure, considering each part of your body heals at different rates among other factors.  Recovery is one of the most important periods throughout a plastic surgery procedure since there are a few risks for complications such as infection, incision splitting and escalated swelling.  Patients have a tendency to overlook their recovery period and focus on their results, which can leave them unprepared for how they will look and feel during their recovery process. 
            Ensuring that you’re healthy prior to your procedure will help you in the long run and aid in speeding up your recovery.  Eating properly and getting plenty of rest for the weeks leading up to your appointment is key.  Follow guidelines that Dr. Shaw has instructed and remember to stop using any medications or supplements indicated to prevent unwarranted bleeding and/or swelling. 
            During your consultation feel free to consult Dr. Shaw with any questions or hesitations you have about your recovery such as how much pain to expect and how long it will take to fully recover and to refrain from certain activities. 
            Once you have a full understanding of what to expect from your procedure and how much down time is required, plan your procedure at a convenient time for friends, family and work in order to properly recover.  Confirm that someone will be accessible to help you go to the bathroom, take your medications, prepare ice compresses and other daily needs for the first 24 to 48 hours after your procedure.  It’s crucial to stick to a balanced diet and drink an abundance of fluids post procedure in order to receive nutrients and help your body heal properly. 
            Keep in mind that every procedure has different requirements during their recovery period.  Contact The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900 for any questions and concerns about a procedure or to schedule a consultation. 
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            Kids often have a mind of their own and explaining a plastic surgery procedure to them may be difficult or uncomfortable.  Everyone has a different approach to parenting and some would like to explain their procedure to their kids while others would like to keep it a secret.  If you choose to share, here are some ways to approach the conversation.
            As many women begin to age, especially those who’ve had children, their body just isn’t what it once was even with diet and exercise.  The majority of moms who opt for a plastic surgery procedure are merely trying to restore what they once had.  Once you decide to have a procedure, the next thought many women have is what they will tell their children.  If you decide to discuss your procedure with your kid(s), one of the essential elements is to keep the conversation age appropriate.  If your child is very young, they may not fully understand all of the elements.  However, since plastic surgery has become drastically popular they may have already been exposed to the subject through the Internet or television depending on their age.  After all, moms know best so determine if an open conversation with more details is best for your child.
            Incorporating inner beauty into the conversation with your child is encouraged.  Touch on the fact that you’re having a procedure to restore self-confidence and to enhance your inner beauty.  It’s also a good idea to explain to them that they’re exemplary just the way they are and since you’re having a procedure that doesn’t mean anything is wrong with them.  If you’re having a procedure that relates to pregnancy, explain to them that you don’t have any regrets having children and it was your choice to have children in the first place.  “I think the right approach is to plainly explain that there was something you were unhappy with and you decided to fix it,” said Dan Ariely, a three-time New York Times bestselling author and Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Economics at Duke University. 
            If your children are aware of your procedure and approach you down the road about having plastic surgery themselves and you’re opposed to the idea, you can explain to them that you decided to have your procedure once you fully matured and knew it was the proper decision for you.
            Undergoing a procedure is a personal choice and the person undergoing the procedure knows his or her family better than anyone.  Our tips are purely suggestions, so decide what the best approach to the topic would be for you and your family!    
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            Minor bruising is a typical expectation for several treatments such as Botox and fillers performed at The SHAW Center.  Fortunately, there are several precautions to take prior to a procedure in order to reduce bruising.  We also have some tips on things to do post procedure to aid in decreasing bruising as well.
            If you are one to bruise easily, avoid taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, St. John’s Wort or high doses of vitamin E supplements for at least two weeks before your procedure.  These medications can potentially enhance bruising and bleeding at the injection site because they act as a blood thinner.
            Vitamin C is one of the most powerful vitamins out there that boosts immunity and healing.  We recommend taking 1,000 milligrams every day for three days prior to your procedure and then seven days following.  Bromelain is also an excellent homeopathic medication created to decrease facial bruising.  Take 1,000 miligrams of Bromelain supplements for five days after your procedure.  Pineapples are also an amazing source of bromelain.  Consuming pineapple helps digestion and minimizes inflammation.
            Arnica Montana pills also help avoid bruising prior to a procedure.  Take four pills under your tongue, twice a day for four days before your treatment.   
            Specific foods can contribute to blood becoming thicker and reduces the chance to leak from blood vessels.  Consume foods rich in Vitamin K like cabbage, spinach and kale.  On the other hand, certain liquids like red wine and green tea may result in thinner blood vessels and bruising.  Avoid consuming these before your procedure. 
           
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            If you are receiving a procedure from the SHAW Center Spa, all treatments will be performed within our office.  For more invasive procedures, there are several options for surgical facilities.  The North Scottsdale Outpatient Surgery Center is a modern, state-of-the-art facility conveniently located on the first floor of our building, offering a comfortable private outpatient surgery option.  The Piper Outpatient Surgery supplies a personalized high quality care for patients undergoing a surgical procedure.  Dr Shaw is also on the staff of Good Samaritan Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital with full admitting and outpatient surgical privileges.
The North Scottsdale Outpatient Surgery Center’s highly trained staff will work with you before, during and after surgery to help you feel as comfortable as possible.  The facility is a fully AAAASF-accredited Ambulatory Surgical Facility, meaning that it is frequently inspected and evaluated to be accredited by the program.  The AAAASF preserves the highest standard of excellence for the facilities it certifies and regularly updates its requirements for safety and quality of care.
            The operating suite within the North Scottsdale Outpatient Surgery Center is fully prepared, providing general anesthesia and innovative instruments and monitoring devices for patient safety throughout surgery and recovery.  Board-certified anesthesiologists perform all procedures that involve anesthesia and all staff members are certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
            The Piper Outpatient Surgery Center supplies tailored, high caliber care for patients enduring a surgical procedure.  This surgery center is located on the Shea Campus of Scottsdale Healthcare.  Patients experience comprehensive nursing care from the moment they are admitted until they are properly discharged.  On top of that, Piper provides a remarkable quiet nursing care unit that creates a relaxed, therapeutic environment for patients that need to extend their stay for 1 to 2 days.  This unit also enables one adult family member to stay overnight with the patient.  

            

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            Undergoing plastic surgery is a significant event and it’s important to find a plastic surgeon that makes you feel secure and comfortable about your procedure.  Often times patients search throughout the country in order to find the best plastic surgeon.  Utilizing a surgeon that is out of town provides privacy, confidentiality and enables a patient to recover away from their friends and family.  The SHAW Center’s excellent reputation attracts a number of patients from outside Arizona.  We have a few simple steps in order to adequately accommodate out of town patients. 
            Once you decide to undergo a procedure, have a friend or spouse help take photos that can easily portray your areas of concern.  Email the pictures along with your concerns to info@theshawcenter.com or click on the Contact us link on our website.  Our forms of contact are confidential and is sent directly to Dr. Shaw to analyze. 
            After you send Dr. Shaw pictures, the next step is to set up a phone consultation.  Throughout your conversation with Dr. Shaw he will provide his recommendations along with your surgical and recovery plans.  You are more than welcome to express any concerns or questions throughout your consultation.  A general pricing plan can be supplied along with financing assistance as needed.  Keep in mind that surgical planning and pricing may alter until it is established with an in-office evaluation. 
            Following a phone consultation, you may schedule a surgery date along with pre-operative and post-operative appointments.  Contact Samantha at (480) 767-1900 to schedule your surgery and visit to Scottsdale.  Our staff will tailor your recovery period depending on your specific needs and customize it to your desires. 
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            All procedures provided at the Shaw Center are performed in a customized, professional and innovative office environment.  There are a few steps that a patient experiences in order to receive a procedure.  These steps include a consultation, pre-surgical preparation, surgery and post-surgical care that are all provided in a skillful and attentive manner.
            Prior to any cosmetic procedure a consultation with Dr. Shaw is done for a small fee, all spa consultations are complimentary.  Consultations give patients sufficient time with Dr. Shaw and his staff for an in-depth evaluation based on the patient’s concerns.  Understanding the patient’s goals, determining what is best for the patient, and educating the patient about the procedure and recovery are the primary focal points of the consultation.  Any and all questions the patient has will be thoroughly answered throughout the consultation as well.
            A preoperative preparation presents in-depth tailored instruction, photography and a detailed discussion with Dr. Shaw and the staff.  All procedures aside from treatments in the spa are performed in Hospital based and fully accredited Outpatient Ambulatory Surgical Facilities.  The majority of the procedures are done using general anesthesia.  In order to strengthen safety and reduce risk, a board-certified anesthesiologist administers the anesthesia and monitors you during the procedure. 
            All post surgical care is fulfilled through an outpatient bases or inpatient at the Piper Ambulatory Surgery Center.  Our staff will contact you in person or by phone and are available for any issues, questions or concerns 24/7. 
            If you are unable to make an appointment, please contact us with at least 24 hours advanced notice in order for us to give your appointment to another patient if possible.  The Shaw Center accepts the following forms of payment: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Cashier’s check, money order or personal check.  We also accept patient financing through Care Credit.
            If you are interested in scheduling a consultation or would like more information, call the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900.
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            Whether you have had one child or several, we’re sure your body has gone through numerous changes.  Several of these transformations include new spider veins, a spreading midsection with loose skin and weakened abdominal muscles, and large breasts that have now gotten smaller and sag.  The SHAW Center offers an array of procedures intended to improve the face, breast and body, while reversing the effects of pregnancy and restoring your youthful radiance.
            Our “Beauty after Baby” procedure consists of a tummy tuck, breast lift (with or without implants), Liposuction, breast reduction, Vaginal Rejuvenation, CoolSculpting, facial treatments and spider vein therapy.  Dr. Shaw can help determine what procedures are right for you during a consultation. 
            An abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck, removes the excess skin and repairs the weak and stretched abdominal muscles.  This procedure will also elevate and tighten vaginal structures.  Liposuction will help get rid of resistant pockets of baby fat.  A labiaplasty reduces the size of the inner labia and tightens the vaginal opening.  Pregnancy hormones cause facial skin changes such as the mask of pregnancy or melasma.  Different skin treatments such as microdermabrasion and skin peels will help get your skin back to normal.  Vein therapy will get rid of spider veins on your legs.
            When it comes to the breasts, there are several options depending on your situation.  After breast-feeding, the breasts usually deflate and experience loss of volume.  A breast augmentation can help correct this issue.  If your breasts increased in size during your pregnancy and have now have gotten smaller and sag, a breast lift will help fix this issue and increase volume if needed.  A breast reduction will not only reduce the size of your breasts but will help lift them as well.
            If you are interested in having a “Beauty after Baby” procedure, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 for a consultation!
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