FAQ

What areas does Dr. Schwarcz treat with plastic surgery?

Dr. Schwarcz focuses exclusively on the face and neck. This includes procedures for the eyelids, brows, forehead, cheeks, jawline, chin, and neck. He does not perform body or breast procedures—his expertise is entirely in facial plastic surgery.

What’s the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is elective and performed to enhance your appearance—examples include facelifts, eyelid lifts, or fat grafting. Reconstructive surgery, on the other hand, addresses medical issues such as trauma, skin cancer, facial asymmetry, or congenital defects. Both approaches are handled with precision, aiming for natural-looking outcomes.

Is facial plastic surgery permanent?

While no surgery can stop the aging process, most facial procedures provide long-lasting improvements that continue to age naturally. A facelift or eyelid lift can take 10–15 years off your appearance and still look great a decade later.

What is recovery like after facial plastic surgery?

Recovery depends on the procedure. Most surgeries require 7–14 days of initial downtime. Swelling and bruising typically subside by week three. While you’ll see early improvements quickly, final results can take several months to fully settle. Dr. Schwarcz provides a detailed recovery plan for every patient.

Where is surgery performed?

All procedures are performed in our private, JCAHO-accredited surgical suite located in the Manhattan office. This offers patients a hospital-grade experience in a comfortable, discreet setting.

Can I have my consultation or follow-up in Rye, NY?

Yes. Consultations and all non-surgical follow-ups are available in both our Upper East Side Manhattan and Rye, NY offices. Surgical procedures are exclusively performed in Manhattan.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for facial plastic surgery?

Ideal candidates are generally healthy, non-smokers (or willing to stop temporarily), and have realistic expectations. Whether your goal is rejuvenation or reconstruction, Dr. Schwarcz will assess your facial structure and goals during your consultation.

What makes Dr. Schwarcz different from other plastic surgeons in NYC?

Dr. Schwarcz is double board-certified and has over 20 years of experience focused solely on facial aesthetics and reconstructive surgery. His approach is conservative yet effective, emphasizing results that are refined—not obvious. His boutique practice offers a more personalized, hands-on experience, and all care is directly provided by him.

Does insurance cover any part of facial plastic surgery?

Reconstructive procedures may be eligible for insurance coverage if deemed medically necessary (e.g., after skin cancer removal or trauma). Cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance. While we do not accept insurance, we can guide you through what’s potentially reimbursable and provide documentation for pre-authorizations when appropriate.

Can previous plastic surgeries be revised?

Yes. Dr. Schwarcz frequently performs revision plastic surgery, particularly for patients who are unhappy with previous facial work done elsewhere. His expertise in subtle correction and reconstruction makes him a go-to for revision cases.

After your consultation with Dr. Schwarcz, if you decide to proceed with surgery, we will send a few essential forms via DocuSign. These forms help secure your surgical date and collect a deposit that covers the operating room fee. For procedures involving sedation anesthesia, we require patients to arrange for someone to pick them up after surgery and stay with them overnight. If you prefer professional nursing assistance, we partner with Elite Private Recovery, a trusted nursing service. For facelift or neck lift procedures, an overnight nurse is mandatory.
To prioritize your safety, we require the following:

For Sedation Anesthesia Procedures: Medical clearance, lab work, and an EKG (for patients over 50 years old).

For Local Anesthesia Procedures: Lab work only.

Our office will provide the necessary forms for your primary care provider. Clearance must be completed within 30 days of surgery, and results must be submitted at least two weeks before your procedure. To ensure timely submission, schedule your clearance appointments as soon as possible.
Within 30 days of your surgery, we will send another set of forms via DocuSign. These include:

Consents

Postoperative instructions

A list of medications to be prescribed postoperatively

A request for a complete list of your current medications, vitamins, and supplements

Timely completion of these forms is essential, as certain medications, vitamins, and supplements must be stopped two weeks before surgery.
MEDICATION + LIFESTYLE

Avoid blood-thinning medications, vitamins, and supplements two weeks before and after surgery.

Discontinue tobacco and nicotine products 30 days before and after surgery, as these hinder healing.

Avoid alcohol a few days before surgery to reduce blood thinning.

DIET + HYDRATION

Stay hydrated in the weeks leading up to surgery.

Focus on a healthy diet, avoiding simple sugars and sodium-heavy foods.
One week before your surgery, we electronically send your prescriptions to your preferred pharmacy. We will also call (typically the evening before surgery) to review instructions and answer any last-minute questions. For sedation anesthesia patients, do not eat, drink, or ingest anything after midnight the night before surgery.
All procedures are performed in our Manhattan office unless another location is prearranged (this is rare). On the day of surgery:

Arrival: You will receive detailed instructions, including arrival time.

Clothing: Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing such as sweatpants, yoga pants, a tank top, a button-down shirt, sports bra, etc. Leave jewelry at home.

Contacts: If you wear contact lenses, do not wear them on the day of surgery or for up to two weeks post-op.

Pre-Surgery Preparation: Upon arrival, you will have time to speak with Dr. Schwarcz, Nurse Leanne Jones, and the anesthesiologist (if applicable). The anesthesia fee is paid directly to the anesthesiologist on the morning of surgery. We will collect a contact number for your escort to keep them informed throughout the day.
You may feel sleepy and need rest. Follow postoperative instructions, especially regarding icing, to reduce swelling. Before surgery, we provide a list of supplies to prepare in advance. Swelling and bruising peak during the first two days but will gradually improve. Remember, asymmetry during early healing is normal and resolves over time.
First Follow-Up: Scheduled 5-10 days after surgery, where you’ll receive updated care instructions.

Physical Activity: Avoid heavy physical activity for at least three weeks.

Ongoing Follow-Ups: Dr. Schwarcz will monitor your recovery over several months.

HEALING TIMELINE

Results begin to appear at 1-3 months.

Final results are typically visible around six months post-op.

THE SURGICAL EXPERIENCE

Every surgical journey begins with an in-depth consultation. Dr. Schwarcz spends meaningful time with each patient to understand their goals and medical history. From there, he designs a treatment plan that’s both realistic and customized.

Surgical procedures take place in our JCAHO-accredited suite in Manhattan, ensuring safety, privacy, and the highest standard of care. Recovery plans are carefully explained and closely monitored, with follow-ups available in both our Manhattan and Rye, NY offices.

From first consultation to final result, the goal is to make you feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout your experience.

CHOOSE DR. SCHWARCZ

Over 20 years of experience in facial surgery
Double board-certified in oculofacial plastic surgery
Focus on natural, undetectable results
Boutique practice with a personalized touch
Accredited surgical facility in Manhattan
Follow-ups available in Rye, NY

What Is Facial Plastic Surgery?

Facial plastic surgery refers to both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures performed on the face and neck. Dr. Schwarcz is a double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience specializing in procedures that enhance or restore natural facial structure.

From subtle aesthetic refinements to advanced reconstructive care, his focus is on achieving harmony—not perfection—and helping patients feel confident and comfortable in their appearance.

COSMETIC SURGERY

What it is:
Cosmetic facial plastic surgery includes elective procedures designed to enhance the face and neck. These procedures are chosen by patients who wish to reverse signs of aging, refine facial contours, or improve symmetry.

Common procedures include:

Benefits:

Restores youthful volume and contour
Smooths wrinkles and tightens sagging skin
Improves facial harmony and symmetry
Provides long-term results that look like you—just refreshed

Dr. Schwarcz is known for a “less is more” approach. His patients never look frozen or pulled—just naturally rejuvenated.

RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

What it is:
Reconstructive facial surgery restores both appearance and function after trauma, skin cancer, congenital issues, or medical complications.

Common procedures include:

Benefits:

Restores natural anatomy
Improves breathing, vision, or facial movement
Reduces visible signs of trauma or disease
Helps patients reclaim confidence and identity

Reconstructive care with Dr. Schwarcz is never one-size-fits-all—it’s thoughtful, individualized, and rooted in both aesthetic and functional expertise.

PLASTIC SURGERY

Q: What’s the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is elective and performed to enhance appearance, while reconstructive surgery addresses medical concerns like trauma or skin cancer. Both are handled with precision for natural-looking outcomes.

Q: Is facial plastic surgery permanent?

While no procedure stops aging, most facial surgeries offer long-lasting results. A facelift or eyelid lift can take 10–15 years off your appearance and age gracefully over time.

Q: What is recovery like after facial plastic surgery?

Recovery varies by procedure. Most patients need 7–14 days of downtime, with swelling subsiding by week three. Full results develop over several months.

Q: Where is surgery performed?

All surgeries take place in Dr. Schwarcz’s private, JCAHO-accredited surgical suite in the Manhattan office for hospital-grade care in a discreet setting.

Q: Can I have my consultation or follow-up in Rye, NY?

Yes. Consultations and follow-ups are available in both the Manhattan and Rye, NY offices. All surgical procedures are performed in the Manhattan location.

Q: How do I know if I’m a good candidate for facial plastic surgery?

Candidates should be healthy, non-smoking, and have realistic expectations. Dr. Schwarcz will assess facial structure and goals during your consultation.

Q: What makes Dr. Schwarcz different from other plastic surgeons in NYC?

Dr. Schwarcz is double board-certified with 20+ years of facial surgery experience. His work is known for being refined, not obvious, with a boutique, hands-on approach.

Q: Does insurance cover any part of facial plastic surgery?

Reconstructive surgery may be covered if medically necessary. Cosmetic procedures are not covered. We can assist with documentation for insurance if applicable.

Q: Can previous plastic surgeries be revised?

Yes. Dr. Schwarcz performs revision surgeries for patients dissatisfied with previous facial procedures, specializing in subtle, corrective work.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Plastic surgery isn’t about looking different—it’s about looking like the best version of yourself. At the practice of Dr. Robert Schwarcz, MD, we specialize exclusively in plastic surgery of the face and neck, blending cosmetic artistry with medical precision. Whether you’re looking to refresh your appearance or restore function after trauma or illness, Dr. Schwarcz offers a tailored approach with natural-looking results that highlight your unique features, never mask them.

With offices on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and in Rye, NY, consultations and follow-ups are convenient. All surgeries are performed in our state-of-the-art, JCAHO-accredited surgical suite in Manhattan.