General FAQs
How much does a Consultation cost?
The Cost of a Patient Consultation with Dr Gary Kode is $350 (inc GST)
Your consultation fee is due at the time of making your booking – please see our terms and conditions.
How soon can I be seen for a Consultation?
To schedule a consultation please phone us – We will fit you in as soon as possible. You can also be on a waiting list for an earlier appointment.
What Payment Methods do you accept?
Cash, EFTPOS, Direct Deposit and all major Credit Cards. Assistance with finance may be available through independent medical finance companies.
Do I need a medical referral to see Dr Kode?
Yes. All patients are required to have a GP referral to see a plastic surgeon about cosmetic surgery (since new regulations on 1st July 2023). A valid referral is always needed if you wish to claim Medicare subsidy on medically essential surgery.
Will Medicare give me a rebate for a Medical Consultation?
Medicare will only rebate your consultation fee if you are seeing Dr Kode for a Medically Necessary Procedure (a procedure with an item number). You will be advised whether this is the case during your consultation as there are criteria you must meet to have access to an item number.
Clinic Access FAQs
Where does Dr Kode consult?
– ME CLINIC 4 Burke Road, Malvern East VICTORIA 3145
– MITCHAM CLINIC – 246 Mitcham Rd, Mitcham VICTORIA 3145
Is there Free Parking at Malvern & Mitcham?
There is ample free carparking next to the clinic and in the streets nearby.
What can I expect at the consultation?
Please arrive 15 minutes early so that you have time to complete paperwork for medical record purposes and meet our team. We will speak to you about your health, medications, allergies and previous operations as well as the outcome you wish to achieve.
During this time, your general medical history is established and a thorough assessment is performed to understand and discuss the appropriate plans to achieve your goals.
How can I make the most of my consultation?
– Send in your registration form early
– Send in your photos promptly if requested by our team
– Prepare your list of questions to make sure you don’t forget anything
– If possible, bring a support person as there will be a lot of information discussed.
Surgery FAQs
How long before I can book surgery?
For any Cosmetic Surgery there is a compulsory one-week cooling off period after your second consultation.
We aim to find you a suitable date for your surgery and can put you on a waiting list for any cancellations.
Will I have a Local Anaesthesia or General Anaesthesia?
All Major Surgery is performed under General Anaesthesia.
Where is the surgery performed?
Dr Kode performs all surgical procedures in private hospitals around Melbourne with fully accredited operating facilities.
Dr Kode performs surgery at Masada Hospital in East St Kilda and Glenferrie Private Hospital.
You will be placed under general anaesthesia and may be required to stay overnight at the hospital.
After your operation, Dr Kode will visit you while you are still in the hospital and then see you about one week after surgery at the clinic.
Will there be scarring?
Whenever there is an incision there will be a scar. Dr Kode will ensure the incision scar is as good as it can possibly be. A well-placed incision that is sutured in fine detail typically fades over time. However, there is some variation and unpredictability about how some scars heal depending on the procedure you are having and your genetic makeup – this will be discussed with you at your consultation.
Preparing for Surgery FAQs
What should I bring with me on the day of surgery?
Please bring any required paperwork, comfortable clothing, and any items recommended by Dr Kohout’s team, such as compression garments or prescription medications. Make sure to also have arrangements for your transport home.
How can I prepare my home for recovery after surgery?
It is important to prepare a comfortable and relaxing environment for your recovery. Ensure you have easy access to necessities, avoid strenuous activities, arrange support from a family member or friend, and have all your medications on hand. It is also helpful to set up a rest area with pillows to keep you comfortable.
FAQs about Plastic Surgeons
Who is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon?
The term ‘Specialist Plastic Surgeon’ only applies to a recognised specialist surgeon who has successfully completed the intensive training program of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) in plastic surgery.
In Australia the title “Surgeon” is protected and can only be used by a fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons.
Only then can the qualified Plastic Surgeon become a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).
What is the difference between getting my surgery in Australia compared to overseas?
Getting your surgery done overseas is often cheaper but not always safer. There are many benefits to undertaking any surgical procedure locally, especially when it comes to recovery at home and in the case of any unforeseen issues arising.
Also with cosmetic surgery performed overseas, there is a well-reported higher complication and revision rate that is not discussed and needs to be taken into account when looking at the final costs.
What risks are involved with surgery?
Any type of surgery has potential risks. It is important to discuss all risks and complications with your physician in detail during your consultation process. You will be given this information to take home as it is important that you understand fully what is involved. Please read our risks and potential complications of surgery page
Who is a good candidate for plastic surgery?
Anyone who is both physically and mentally healthy with realistic expectations.
Surgery Funding & Payments FAQs
Does Medicare cover my Surgery?
If you are having a medically necessary surgery and meet the strict criteria, you may be eligible for a small subsidy from Medicare. This is more likely to apply to surgeries like breast reduction, abdominoplasty, blepharoplasty, gynaecomastia and surgery to remove excess skin after massive weight loss. The will still be a significant out-of-pocket payment as surgery is not free and we are not a NO GAP provider.
Will Private Health insurance cover my Surgery?
If you are eligible for Medicare and have the right level of health cover, your health insurer may subsidise some of your surgery. Please note there will still be a significant out-of-pocket payment as we are NOT a NO GAP provider.
Can I use My Super to pay for my Surgery?
In certain circumstances, you may be eligible for Early Release of your Superannuation to pay for surgery. Please visit the ATO website for more information
Do you offer Medical Finance?
Doctors and Medical clinics are unable to provide medical finance or advice but independent medical finance is available – please look online.
When do I pay for Surgery?
Your payment for major surgery is due 4 weeks before surgery. For minor procedures payment is due prior to surgery.
Can I get a refund if I cancel Surgery?
Please read our terms and conditions for surgery cancellation and postponement policies.
Surgery Recovery FAQs
Can I drive myself home after surgery?
No. You will need someone you know and trust to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
Do I need to take medication after my surgery?
Painkillers and/or antibiotics are often prescribed after your cosmetic or plastic surgery. You will be told what medication you need to take. It is important you are comfortable after any surgery, so you are encouraged to take any pain relief medication as directed to make your overall experience considerably more comfortable.
Will I need to wear a surgical garment?
Following some surgical procedures, tight-fitting surgical support garments are used for comfort, to help reduce bruising and to control excessive swelling. Should your procedure require a garment our clinic team will provide you with the details.
Do I have to stay overnight in Hospital?
Some procedures require an overnight stay for your safety. If it is possible to go home on the same day Dr Kode will discuss this during your consultation. Some patients prefer an overnight stay to ensure on medication and regular nurse observation.
When can I get back to normal activities?
This really depends on what kind of surgery you’ve had. As a general rule, you’ll be advised to avoid exercise for the first two weeks after surgery. You will be able to gradually resume activity, and by six weeks following your surgery, you should be back to most of your normal level of exercise. It is always best to discuss this with Dr Kode prior to surgery so you know exactly what to expect and plan. We are able to provide Medical Certificates for Work, or for the Gym if you need to suspend your membership.
When Can I Fly?
Flying domestically is usually fine at around 2 weeks. For international or long-haul flights we would recommend 6-8 weeks before taking off. We want to make sure that you are well on the road to recovery. If you are overseas and an issue arises, we can’t look after you.
When Can I Swim?
We would recommend 6-8 weeks before hopping back into a pool or spa. Your incisions need to be well healed and depending on your procedure, your muscles as well.
When Can I Go Back to Work?
This depends on the type of work you do and the procedure you have had, most people are fine to return to work after 2-3 weeks. If you have the ability to work from home, you may be able to return a little earlier, or on a part-time basis. Each patient is different so discussing this with Dr Kode is a good idea.
When Can I go back to the Gym / Exercise?
Sometimes returning to the gym is more about just getting out of the house and feeling a bit more normal. We recommend gentle walking for the first week or two, then slowly increasing the distance and pace over the next 2-4 weeks.
By the time you are 6-8 weeks post-op you should feel comfortable enough to return to your regular exercise routine. ***After Abdominoplasty with MUSCLE REPAIR you should usually wait 12 weeks before returning to any stomach core work or weights.
What happens with Follow Up visits after my Surgery?
Dr Kode aims to see you frequently after surgery, most patients we see at 7 to 10 days post surgery, 6-8 weeks, 3 Months to 6 Months and at 12 Months for a review.
