RESOURCES FOR CONSULTATION
Explore all of the necessary resources and information in preparation for your first consultation with Dr Andrew Raymond.
Making informed decisions starts with understanding your care.
At Andrew Raymond Plastic Surgery, we believe education is an important part of every patient journey.
These resources have been created to help you understand consultations, procedures, recovery, and the considerations involved in surgical and non-surgical treatments.
Your individual care plan will always be tailored to your anatomy, goals, and clinical needs.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment:
When you book your appointment you will be provided with a New Patient Registration Form, Privacy Consent and Photography Consent. Please review and return these documents at least one week prior to your appointment. To support accurate clinical documentation, we use Lyrebird Health during all consultations. Lyrebird health does not retain or store patient information, and all records remain securely held by our practice.
Cosmetic Surgery Consultations
Your first cosmetic consultation focuses on understanding your concerns, goals, and suitability for surgery. Dr Raymond will take a detailed medical history, perform an assessment, and discuss appropriate treatment options. Risks, benefits, alternatives, regulatory requirements, and expected outcomes will be explained clearly. You will have time to ask questions, and no decisions are required on the day. A detailed financial disclosure outlining expected fees and costs will be provided on the day of your consultation.
Reconstructive Surgery Consultations
Reconstructive consultations are centred on careful clinical assessment and treatment planning. Dr Raymond will review your referral, medical history, and any relevant imaging or investigations. Surgical options, timing, risks, and expected outcomes will be discussed, with a focus on safety and long-term results. Further investigations or referrals may be arranged if needed. Financial information relevant to your treatment will be discussed and provided as a part of your consultation.
Skin Cancer Consultations
Skin cancer consultations involve assessment of the lesion(s), review of referral information, and discussion of management options. Where appropriate, treatment planning will include excision and reconstruction. The focus is on timely care, safety, and clear explanation of next steps, including pathology and follow-up. Any relevant fees and costs will be discussed as part of your consultation.
Preparing for Surgery
Preparing well before surgery supports a smoother recovery and helps you feel informed and confident throughout your surgical journey.
Optimising your recovery
Good nutrition before and after surgery plays an important role in healing. Adequate protein intake supports tissue repair and wound healing, and maintaining your overall health before surgery can assist your recovery.
Planning for the day of surgery
Your procedure may be performed as:
- In rooms procedure: Done only under local anaesthetic
- Hospital - Day surgery: Often under twilight sedation
- Hospital - Overnight stay: May require general anaesthesia
Your surgical plan will determine the appropriate setting, and this will be discussed with you during your consultation.
Hospital admission information
For hospital procedures, the hospital will contact you approximately 24 hours before surgery to confirm:
- Admission details
- Fasting instructions
- Arrival time
- You will need someone to drop you off and pick you up from the hospital
A little preparation before surgery can help your experience feel smoother and more comfortable.
We recommend:
- Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is easy to change into after surgery
- Bringing any medications or information requested by your clinical team
- Ensuring your support person is available for discharge and transport home
- Bringing any required post-operative garments or equipment provided before surgery
For hospital stays, you may also like to bring personal items to make your stay more comfortable, such as a phone charger and slip on shoes.
In-room procedures
For procedures performed within our private rooms, preparation and recovery requirements may differ.
Please ensure you have discussed any current medications you are taking with our team.
You can eat and drink as normal, and in many cases you may be able to drive yourself home. We do, however, recommend bringing a support person where possible.
Post-operative recovery
Your recovery is an important part of your surgical journey. Our team will provide detailed instructions specific to your procedure, however there are some general principles that apply following surgery.
Dressings and wound care
Following your procedure, please leave your dressings in place until your first post-operative review with the practice nurse.
Your nurse will assess your healing, review your wounds, and provide guidance regarding ongoing dressing care and showering instructions.
Avoid removing or changing dressings unless specifically instructed by your clinical team - if you have any concerns please call the clinic directly on 40 818 787
Early recovery
During the initial recovery period, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and changes in sensation.
Resting and allowing your body time to heal is an important part of recovery.
Follow-up care
Your follow-up schedule will depend on your procedure and individual recovery. Post operative care may include:
- Wound and dressing assessment
- Suture or drain management where required
- Monitoring healing progress
- Healite LED therapy
- Scar care education and guidance
- Guidance on returning to normal activities
Your recovery is monitored closely by our team, and you are encouraged to contact us if you have any concerns.
Travelling for Surgery
Some patients travel from regional areas or interstate for surgery in Newcastle.
If you are travelling, accommodation and transport must be planned in advance to ensure a safe recovery period, particularly in the early post-operative phase.
The length of stay in Newcastle will vary depending on the type and complexity of your procedure, and your individual recovery. Some procedures require only short local recovery, while others require an extended stay for monitoring and follow-up.
How long you may need to stay
Your stay will depend on your procedure:
- Minor procedures / skin surgery: short stay or same-day discharge once clinically cleared
- Breast surgery / facial surgery: several days in Newcastle for early recovery and review
- Reconstructive procedures (including DIEP and staged surgery): extended stay for monitoring and follow-up care
You will be advised on appropriate timing prior to confirming travel arrangements.
Where to stay in Newcastle
Because our clinic is based in The Junction, many patients choose to stay nearby for ease of access to consultations and post-operative review.
Newcastle Private Hospital is located at New Lambton Heights.
Hunter Valley Private is located at Shortland.
Around town
- There are two major shopping centers in Newcastle: Westfield Kotara and Charlestown Square.
- A Harris Farm grocery store is located on Darby street, Newcastle.
- Dining out precincts are found at The Junction, Darby street and Honeysuckle.
Recommended accommodation
These are commonly used by patients recovering after surgery in Newcastle:
Quest Newcastle West (Serviced Apartments)
Spacious accommodation with kitchen and laundry facilities, suitable for longer recovery stays.
Quest Newcastle West - 787 Hunter Street, Newcastle
QT Newcastle
Boutique hotel offering private, comfortable rooms suitable for short-term recovery with room service access and restaurant onsite.
QT Newcastle - 185 Hunter St, Newcastle
Little National Hotel Newcastle (Honeysuckle)
Minimal, quiet accommodation designed for rest and short-term stays in the Honeysuckle precinct.
Little National Hotel Newcastle - 44 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle
Novotel Newcastle Beach
Coastal hotel option suitable for patients recovering with a support person in a quieter environment.
Novotel Newcastle Beach - 5 King St, Newcastle
NOAH'S On The Beach
A beachfront accommodation option in Newcastle East, offering a quiet setting with ocean views and a relaxed environment for patients recovering with a support person.
NOAH'S On The Beach - 29 Zaara St, Newcastle East
Support person requirement
A support person is required for all patients travelling for surgery.
They must:
- Travel with you to Newcastle
- Be present for hospital discharge
- Assist with transport, medication, and early recovery needs
- Remain available during the initial recovery period as advised
Patients must not attend surgery or return home alone following anaesthesia.
Flying for surgery
If you are travelling by air:
- You must not fly until cleared following surgery
- Swelling may increase after flying due to cabin pressure changes
- Reduced mobility increases the risk of complications, including blood clots
- Timing of safe air travel varies by procedure and recovery progress
This will be discussed with you prior to planning return travel.
Important planning considerations
- Arrive in Newcastle at least 24 hours prior to surgery.
- Confirm accommodation before finalising travel arrangements
- Ensure your support person is available for the full perioperative period
- Allow flexibility in return travel dates
- Schedule follow-up appointments before returning home
Patient support
Some patients may be eligible for travel and accommodation assistance schemes depending on distance travelled and referral pathway.
Look into an IPTAS form online.
Understanding Scar Care
Scarring is a normal part of the healing process following surgery. While scars cannot be removed completely, appropriate scar care can support healing and optimise their appearance over time.
Your clinical team will advise when it is appropriate to begin scar management.
Moisturise and massage
Scar care can begin early in the scar maturation process once the wound has started to heal and you have been advised it is safe to commence.
Gentle moisturising with simple ointments such as paw paw ointment or Vaseline can help support skin hydration and comfort during healing.
Regular massage assists in softening healing scar tissue helping to lay it out flat and improve scar mobility over time.
Sun protection
Protecting healing scars from sun exposure is important.
UV exposure can cause scars to become darker and may affect their long-term appearance. Use sun protection and avoid direct sun exposure while scars are still maturing over the first 6-12 months.
Silicone treatments
Silicone gel and silicone tapes may be recommended as part of scar management.
Silicone helps maintain hydration of the scar and may assist with improving scar softness, thickness, and visual appearance during the healing process.
Your clinical team will advise which option is most appropriate and when to commence use.
frequently asked questions
Have a burning question? See some of Dr Andrew Raymond’s most frequently asked questions.
About Dr andrew raymond
What are Dr Andrew Raymond’s qualifications?
Dr Andrew Raymond is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and is qualified to the highest Australian and international standards.
He also holds various educational certificates which you can learn more about on his About Us page.
What procedures does Dr Andrew Raymond specialise in?
Dr Andrew Raymond takes a special interest in breast and face surgeries, particularly facial cosmetic surgery, breast augmentations, lifts and reductions, as well as reconstruction after cancer.
Dr Andrew Raymond specialises in cosmetic procedures of the face and breast and body contouring procedures and also treats all forms of skin cancer, hand injuries and ailments.
Do I need a referral to see Dr Andrew Raymond?
A doctor’s referral is not required to see Dr Raymond but is highly recommended as it may enable you to receive a Medicare rebate on the cost of your consultation or procedure(s) with an associated Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item number.
About the Practice
What are Dr Andrew Raymond’s office hours?
Dr Andrew Raymond operates out of several practice locations, which you can explore online. To find out which location he is currently operating out of or to enquire about his practice hours, call our team today on (02) 4963 1581.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Who is Dr Andrew Raymond?
Dr Andrew Raymond is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and a Board Certified Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon providing specialist plastic surgery care in Newcastle and the Hunter region.
Is Dr Raymond a specialist plastic surgeon?
Yes. Dr Raymond has completed formal specialist training in plastic and reconstructive surgery and meets the standards of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.
What are Dr Andrew Raymond’s office hours?
Dr Raymond provides specialist consultations at the clinic every Monday and every second Friday. Our clinic team is available during regular office hours to assist with appointments, enquiries, and referrals.
Clinic Opening Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00am - 12:30pm
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Where is Dr Andrew Raymond’s consulting office located?
Dr Raymond’s clinic is located at L3/199 Corlette Street, The Junction NSW 2291. Get directions here or explore his other locations online.
Skin Surgery FAQs
What skin surgery procedures do you offer?
We provide specialist surgical management of skin cancer and complex skin lesions, including surgical excision and reconstruction where required.
Do you treat complex or recurrent skin cancers?
Yes. The practice has experience in managing complex and recurrent skin cancers, with careful attention to functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Will reconstruction be discussed if skin cancer is removed?
Yes. Where reconstruction is required, this is discussed as part of treatment planning to support both healing and long-term results.
Are procedures performed on-site?
Selected treatments are performed in the clinic under local anaesthetic only. Surgical procedures requiring hospital facilities are arranged separately and discussed during consultation.
Facial Surgery FAQs
What types of facial surgery do you perform?
Facial surgery includes reconstructive and cosmetic procedures such as Face and Neck Lift, Rhinoplasty, Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery - upper and lower), Browlift, Otoplasty (ear reshaping), and excision of facial skin cancers with reconstruction.
Is facial cosmetic surgery suitable for everyone?
No. Facial surgery is only recommended when it is appropriate, safe, and aligned with a patient’s goals and overall wellbeing.
How is facial surgery planned?
Facial surgery is planned following careful assessment and detailed discussion of risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
Breast Surgery FAQs
What breast surgery procedures are offered?
Dr Andrew Raymond’s breast procedures include breast augmentation, breast lift (mastopexy), breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty), breast lift with implants, breast reconstruction, breast asymmetry and tuberous breast correction, as well as nipple areolar correction surgery.
Do you offer breast reconstruction after cancer treatment?
Yes. Breast reconstruction following a cancer diagnosis is a key area of expertise, with a focus on long-term outcomes and patient safety. Dr Raymond provides both immediate and delayed Breast Reconstructions.
Do you perform revision breast surgery?
Yes. The practice has particular experience in complex revisionary breast surgery.
What brand(s) of breast implant does Dr Andrew Raymond use?
Dr Raymond offers both Motiva or Mentor implants – the two Australian market leaders in quality and safety. Between these two brands a wide range of implant types, textures and shapes are available, ensuring a fully customised result for each patient.
Can I combine more than one breast surgery?
Yes. Dr Raymond commonly combines breast implant and fat grafting procedures, or breast augmentations with a lift. By offering combined surgeries he is able to give you the results you want, with only one recovery period.
Body Surgery & Abdominoplasty FAQs
What body surgery procedures do you offer?
Body surgery includes Abdominoplasty, Arm lift, Thigh Lift and selected body contouring procedures after weight loss, offered where appropriate following careful assessment.
Who may be suitable for abdominoplasty?
Suitability is assessed on an individual basis, taking into account overall health, anatomy, goals, and long-term safety considerations.
Is body contouring surgery suitable for everyone?
No. Body surgery is only recommended when it is appropriate and aligned with a patient’s health, expectations, and wellbeing.
Non-Surgical Treatment FAQs
Do you offer non-surgical treatments?
Yes. Non-surgical treatments are offered as part of a comprehensive approach to patient care.
What types of non-surgical treatments are available?
Non-surgical care may include laser treatments and other non-invasive procedures, depending on individual needs.
Are non-surgical treatments suitable for everyone?
Suitability is assessed on an individual basis, with a focus on safety and appropriate outcomes.
Fees, Insurance & Practical Information
Does private health insurance cover plastic surgery?
Private health insurance may provide benefits and rebates for certain medically indicated procedures, such as reconstructive surgery or skin cancer treatment. Coverage varies between insurers and policies, and our team can provide guidance during consultation.
Is cosmetic surgery covered by private health insurance?
In most cases, cosmetic surgery is not covered by private health insurance. This will be discussed clearly during your consultation.
Will there be out-of-pocket costs for my surgery?
In many cases, there will be out-of-pocket costs associated with surgery, private health insurance may provide rebates for certain medically indicated procedures. Expected fees and any likely out-of-pocket costs are discussed clearly during consultation, and patients are encouraged to confirm rebate details directly with their health insurer.
Can superannuation be accessed to pay for surgery?
Early release of superannuation may be possible in limited circumstances under Australian Government criteria. Patients are responsible for seeking independent advice and approval, and this process can be discussed during consultation.
Are payment options discussed before surgery?
Yes. All fees, potential rebates, and payment considerations are discussed as part of treatment planning.
Ethical Standards & Regulatory Requirements
Do you screen for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?
Yes. As part of our commitment to patient safety and ethical care, psychological screening may be undertaken where required to ensure surgery is appropriate.
What is the 7-day cooling-off period?
For certain cosmetic procedures, Australian regulations require a minimum 7-day cooling-off period between consultation and surgery. This allows patients time to consider information provided and make informed decisions.
Why is the cooling-off period important?
The cooling-off period supports informed consent, patient safety, and thoughtful decision-making.
Reconstructive Plastic Surgery FAQs
What reconstructive procedures do you offer?
We provide specialist reconstructive plastic surgery, including management of skin cancer and complex skin lesions, breast reconstruction following cancer, and revisionary breast surgery.
Do you treat skin cancer?
Yes. Management of skin cancer and complex skin lesions is a key area of expertise within the practice.
Do you offer breast reconstruction after cancer?
Yes. Dr Raymond specialises in breast reconstruction following breast cancer, with a focus on restoring form and supporting long-term outcomes.
Do I need a referral for reconstructive surgery?
In most cases, a referral from your GP or specialist is required. Our team can advise when you contact the clinic.
Cosmetic Plastic Surgery FAQs
What cosmetic procedures do you perform?
Our cosmetic practice focuses on facial and breast surgery, as well as selected body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty.
Do you offer cosmetic breast surgery?
Yes. Cosmetic breast procedures are offered where appropriate following careful assessment and discussion.
Do you perform facial cosmetic surgery?
Yes. Facial cosmetic surgery forms part of our focused scope of practice.
Is cosmetic surgery right for everyone?
No. Cosmetic surgery is only recommended when it is appropriate and aligned with a patient’s goals, health, and long-term wellbeing.
Appointments & Referrals
Do I need a referral to see Dr Raymond?
Yes. We require a referral from your GP or specialist before booking a consultation. This ensures that your appointment is appropriately scheduled and that Dr Raymond has the relevant medical information to provide safe and effective care.
Where do I park for my appointment?
How do I book an appointment?
Your referral will be triaged by our team and we will contact you to make an appointment. Alternatively, appointments can be made by contacting the clinic directly.
Is a deposit required to book an appointment?
Yes. A $100 deposit is required to secure cosmetic and reconstructive surgery consultations. This deposit confirms your appointment and is applied toward your consultation fee. Skin cancer consultations do not require a deposit.