Cosmetic Surgery FAQ | Answers from Clinic 5C Experts

You asked. We answered.

At Clinic 5C, we understand that choosing to pursue facial cosmetic surgery is both deeply personal and a highly selective process.
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You may have questions, and you should.
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This resource is here to help you get clarity and confidence before you invest in a cosmetic consultation.

Whether you're seeking a subtle lift, planning well ahead, or curious about the experience of working with our Clinic 5C team, we invite you to explore the frequently asked questions below for cosmetic surgery.

This page was crafted especially for patients like you: informed, discerning, and seeking excellence.

Am I Ready For A Consultation?

When Should I Schedule A Consultation?

We recommend booking your consultation once you're actively considering surgery within the next 3–12 months. Our surgery calendar often books several months in advance, so planning ahead ensures your desired time frame is available.

What is the ideal age for a procedure like a facelift or eyelid surgery?

There is no “perfect” age, only the right timing for your unique goals. We work with patients in their 30s through 70s and beyond. What matters most is the condition of your facial tissues, your goals, and your overall health.

Watch: How Old is Too Old For A Facelift?
Watch: Facelifts on Younger Patients? (20s and 30s)

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How long do I have to decide after my consultation?

Once you have received your formal quote, you will have 4 months to get scheduled and up to a year to get the procedure done. After this period of time, the plan and the pricing are subject to change.

Do I need to choose a surgeon before my consultation?

No, if you're unsure, we’ll help you determine who may be the best fit based on your goals, availability, and clinical priorities.

What does a virtual consultation involve? How long is the consultation?

Our virtual consultations are comprehensive and personalized. You’ll meet directly with the surgeon, discuss your goals, receive an expert recommendation, and have time for questions. After your personalized consultation, our cosmetic coordinator will send over your formal quote and discuss the next steps in the scheduling process.

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‍Watch: What Does A Consultation With Clinic 5C Look Like?

Understanding Your Surgical Plan

Do I need all the procedures recommended in my quote?

Dr. Chesnut and our associate/protege surgeons take a comprehensive, harmony-based approach to the face. When multiple areas are recommended, it’s because the combined effect creates the most natural, beautiful result, where no single area looks “done,” but the entire face looks refreshed and cohesive.

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Your surgical plan is organized into thoughtfully designed treatment groups. Group 1 typically represents the foundational procedures needed to achieve a cohesive, high-impact result. Additional groups may be recommended to enhance harmony across your entire face. While you can choose to proceed with just Group 1, the procedures within each group are meant to be performed together to ensure a balanced, natural-looking outcome.

Can I just do one procedure, like a facelift or eyelid lift?

It is very rare for our providers to do one surgical procedure; our process almost always includes multiple procedures performed simultaneously for optimal outcomes and overall facial rejuvenation.

How long does the procedure take?

All plans are very individualized, and procedures can vary anywhere from 4 hours to 2 full days in the operating room.

Watch: How Long Do Procedures Take?

What is the recovery process like?

Our unique and innovative regenerative recovery protocols help reduce downtime and optimize healing. This includes but is not limited to Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy, Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy, IV Nutrition, and LED Light Therapy. You’ll receive detailed guidance and concierge support every step of the way. Our customized, retreat homes are included in Dr. Chesnut’s recovery experience and are the perfect setting to heal and recover.

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Watch: What is Recovery Like?

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Does the price include the use of regenerative protocols to support healing?

Yes. All pre- and post-operative regenerative protocols are included as part of Dr. Chesnut’s comprehensive surgery pricing through the Next Level Recovery Package. For procedures performed by our protégé surgeons, this recovery package is available as an optional add-on, and is strongly encouraged to enhance healing and optimize results.

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Will I be under anesthesia?

Yes, but rest assured: we use safe, highly monitored sedation that allows for a smooth, comfortable experience, prioritizing your health and recovery.

‍Watch: How We Protect Your Sleep During Surgical Anesthesia

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Is Dr. Chesnut board-certified?

Yes. Dr. Chesnut is double board-certified by both the American Board of Dermatology and the American Board of Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery. These certifications reflect his extensive training and expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and neck. His credentials are also independently verified by RealSelf, a trusted platform for researching physicians.

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You can view his full list of credentials and affiliations on the following pages:
• Dr. Chesnut’s educational background
• Dr. Chesnut’s curriculum vitae (CV)
• Dr. Chesnut’s RealSelf profile

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What is Dr. Chesnut’s surgical background?

Dr. Chesnut is a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon who has devoted his entire surgical career to cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the face and neck. He has been exclusively practicing facial plastic surgery for over a decade and has performed thousands of successful procedures.

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How does dermatology-based training compare to other plastic surgery pathways?

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He is also a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), where he serves as a national and international educator: teaching courses, mentoring peers, and helping shape the future of the field.There are four primary surgical pathways that lead to specialization in facial plastic surgery: General Surgery, ENT (Otolaryngology), Ophthalmology, and Dermatology. Each pathway offers a different foundation, but advanced fellowship training is essential for facial cosmetic expertise in three of the four routes: ENT, Ophthalmology, and Dermatology.

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Dr. Chesnut completed a highly specialized cosmetic surgery fellowship and now serves as a fellowship director, training two new surgeons each year in advanced facial plastic techniques.

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For Our Out-Of-Town Guests

Many of our cosmetic patients fly in from across the country and internationally. Here are some helpful details to help you consider flying to Spokane for facial plastic surgery.

How long should I plan to stay in Spokane, WA?

We generally recommend staying 8–10 days for post-op visits and optimal monitoring. As part of our Next Level Recovery Package, your stay is part of your plan, and we will arrange transportation to and from surgery, and facilitate your recovery modalities at our Clinic 5C Functional Medicine location.

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Can I come alone, or do I need someone with me?

You may come solo, but it’s strongly recommended to bring a support person, especially for the first 24-72 hours after surgery. We do offer concierge-level overnight care, and a trusted post-op specialist is available for hire longer if needed. Overnight care is included for Dr. Chesnut’s patients.

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Watch: Traveling to See Me? Everything You Need To Know
Watch: Our Frictionless Concierge Experience

Where should I stay?

We arrange accommodations for you during your stay in Spokane.

Pricing, Payment & What to Expect

Why does pricing vary from person to person?

Every face is unique, and so is every surgical plan. Quotes are thoughtfully tailored based on your individual anatomy.

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While our pricing page offers general ranges for individual procedures, Dr. Chesnut nearly always recommends a comprehensive, bundled approach to achieve the most natural, long-lasting results. During your consultation, we’ll create a custom surgical plan aligned with your goals, one that’s optimized for harmony, healing, and sustained beauty.

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Watch: Should You Break Up Procedures or Do Everything Together?

What’s due for me to schedule surgery?

We require a 20% deposit at the time of scheduling, based on your personalized quote. The remaining balance is due four weeks prior to your surgery date.

Do you accept insurance?

No. Cosmetic procedures at Clinic 5C are elective and not covered by insurance.

Do you offer payment plans?

We’re happy to arrange pre-payments leading up to your surgery. However, full payment must be completed four weeks prior to your surgery date.

How can I pay?

We accept wire transfers, checks, cash, and secure online payments through Square or ModMed Pay.

What’s the photo consent discount?

If you’ve opted in to allow photo use and consent for Clinic 5C, your discount refund will be processed upon receipt of your final 6-month milestone photos. The details will be clearly outlined in your consent form. Below are some examples of ways we could use your photos/videos and what you may expect as a photo consenting patient:

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Jen (60) From New York
3 Month Recovery Update From Megan
Pre-Op Chat with Natasha
3 Month Recovery Update with Michael

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Have a Billing Question?

If you're an active patient with questions about your payment, quote, or account balance, we’ll connect you directly with our Accounting Team. You may also reach out to Nichole, our Cosmetic Coordinator.

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‍Email: accountsreceivable {at} clinic5c.com

‍Prefer a call? Let us know and we’ll arrange one at your convenience.

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Spokane Clinic (Main Floor)

Cosmetic Surgery Dermatology (Mohs)

510 S Cowley St

Spokane, WA 99202

Spokane Clinic (Downstairs)

Functional + Regenerative Medicine

511 S Pine St Suite A&D

Spokane, WA 99202