Your Journey
The Patient Experience
From your first consultation to your final follow-up, every detail is designed around your comfort, safety, and confidence. This is what exceptional surgical care looks like.
Dr. Chen gives every surgical patient his personal cell phone number for post-operative questions and peace of mind.
Five Stages
Your Surgical Journey
Consultation
60–90 minutes
Your consultation begins the moment you arrive. Dr. Chen personally meets with every prospective patient for a minimum of 60 minutes — there is no rush and no pressure. He listens to your goals, examines your anatomy, and uses 3D imaging technology to help you visualize potential outcomes before any decision is made.
One-on-one meeting with Dr. Chen — never a coordinator or PA
In-depth discussion of your aesthetic goals and concerns
Comprehensive physical examination
Vectra 3D imaging to visualize potential outcomes
Review of medical history and candidacy assessment
Transparent discussion of risks, recovery timeline, and expected results
Planning
1–2 weeks before surgery
Once you decide to move forward, Dr. Chen develops a surgical plan as meticulous as a Renaissance composition. Every incision, every technique is chosen specifically for your anatomy. You’ll receive clear pre-operative instructions, complete any necessary lab work, and have a final pre-op appointment to review every detail.
Custom surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and goals
Pre-operative instructions and medication guidelines
Lab work and medical clearance
Detailed review of what to expect on surgery day
Arrangement of recovery support and post-op care
Final questions answered — Dr. Chen’s direct line is always available
Surgery Day
Varies by procedure
On the morning of your procedure, you’ll arrive at our private surgical suite where the entire team is focused exclusively on you. Dr. Chen personally marks your surgical plan, and a board-certified anesthesiologist ensures your comfort throughout. There are no residents, no fellows — Dr. Chen performs every procedure himself from start to finish.
Arrive at our private AAAHC-accredited surgical suite
Pre-operative preparation and marking with Dr. Chen
Board-certified anesthesiologist on every case
Dr. Chen performs every procedure personally — no residents, no fellows
Family waiting area with real-time updates
Transition to our private recovery room
Recovery
First 2–4 weeks
Recovery is where Dr. Chen’s commitment to patient care truly distinguishes Artisan Plastic Surgery. Every surgical patient receives Dr. Chen’s personal cell phone number. He checks on patients daily during the first week. Our optional overnight recovery suite provides hotel-quality comfort with clinical-grade nursing care for patients who prefer not to go home immediately.
Optional overnight stay in our private recovery suite
Dedicated nursing staff for overnight patients
Personalized pain management protocol
Dr. Chen provides his personal cell phone number to every surgical patient
First follow-up within 24–48 hours
Detailed recovery guide with day-by-day expectations
Results
Ongoing — up to 1 year
Your results will continue to refine over the months following surgery. Dr. Chen monitors your progress at each scheduled follow-up, documenting your transformation and ensuring everything is healing beautifully. This isn’t a transactional relationship — Dr. Chen’s patients become part of the Artisan family, with access to his care for years to come.
Reveal appointment to see your transformation
Scheduled follow-ups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year
Progress photography at each visit
Scar management guidance and treatment
Skincare optimization with our aesthetician
Lifetime relationship — Dr. Chen is always available
Before Your Procedure
Pre-Surgery Checklist
Proper preparation is one of the most important factors in achieving an excellent surgical outcome. Our team will guide you through every step, but here is an overview of what to expect before your procedure.
Complete all required lab work and medical clearance 2 weeks prior
Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and after surgery
Discontinue aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood-thinning supplements 2 weeks prior
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours
Fill all prescribed medications before your surgery date
Prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with extra pillows
Stock easy-to-prepare meals and snacks for the first week
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that buttons or zips in front on surgery day
After Your Procedure
Recovery Guide
Every patient heals differently, but this general timeline will help you understand what to expect during your recovery. Dr. Chen and our team are available every step of the way.
Initial Recovery
Rest is essential. Mild to moderate discomfort managed with prescribed medication. Keep head elevated. Cold compresses to reduce swelling. Dr. Chen checks in daily.
Early Healing
Swelling and bruising peak around day 3–4 and begin to subside. Light walking encouraged. Most patients begin to feel noticeably better.
Returning to Life
Most patients return to desk work by week 2. Light exercise by week 3–4. Sutures and drains removed as appropriate. Continued improvement in swelling.
Refinement
Swelling continues to resolve. Scars begin to mature and fade. Results become more defined with each passing week. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Chen.
Final Results
Full results visible. Scars continue to lighten and flatten. Final photographs taken. Most patients describe this period as transformative.
Virtual Consultations Available
Can't make it to Scottsdale? Dr. Chen offers secure video consultations for out-of-state and international patients. Discuss your goals, review 3D simulations, and develop a surgical plan \u2014 all from the comfort of your home.
Begin Your Journey
Your Transformation Starts with a Conversation
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Chen. There is no obligation and no pressure \u2014 just an honest, thorough conversation about what\u2019s possible.