COVID-19: How Does This Virus Affect Plastic Surgery?
The novel coronavirus has drastically changed the way that medical practices work with patients— and especially the way that plastic surgeons provide services and treatments. That’s because changing the way that we provide services is an effective way to prevent the spread of the virus and ensure our patients stay safe and healthy. Dr. Kayastha and our team have been following the development of COVID-19 very closely along with adhering to guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This means that currently, all elective surgeries and non-essential medicine are delayed during this pandemic. Here’s what to know about what this means for plastic surgery patients at K Plastic Surgery.
ASPS Guidelines for COVID-19
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends that all plastic surgeons cease any elective surgeries or non-essential services. At this point, the responsibility of the elective medical field is to not overwhelm the limited supply of hospital beds, ICU beds, ventilators, and other necessary medical technology. In New York especially, we’re already facing pressure on medical resources because of coronavirus. Secondly, the ASPS recommends conserving much-needed disposable medical supplies and redirecting them to hospitals where they are needed.
What Does This Mean for Plastic Surgeons?
Our team is aware of these recommended measures from the ASPS. In the state of New York, members from all medical specialties— including plastic surgery— are being encouraged to help in hospitals where needed. Unfortunately, since elective surgeries are no longer allowed, this means that many plastic and cosmetic surgeons are no longer practicing around the country. For most plastic surgery patients, this means that their procedures are postponed for the foreseeable future.
Steps We Are Taking
We want to ensure that our patients are taken care of in the safest manner possible. Our Latham office is remaining open to deal with urgent or emergency issues but, as it stands, all elective office visits and surgeries are being postponed until at least May. However, this may change based on the developing situation in the State of New York and the CDC’s recommendations. Keep in mind that we are offering Telehealth and virtual consultations for patients when appropriate.
Telehealth allows us to continue to provide essential care to patients in need of follow-up appointments or care if they recently underwent a procedure. It helps us deliver clinical information with a virtual face-to-face environment so that you can continue your care with Dr. Kayastha. Additionally, we’re offering virtual consultations for new patients interested in future procedures and treatments. You can contact our office for more information on both options and how to use them.
You can rest assured that our team is following the important guidelines set by the State of New York regarding social distancing and avoiding non-essential activities. We are also staying up-to-date and following guidelines set by the ASPS and CDC as well.
K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Kayastha and our team at K Plastic Surgery are working diligently to continue providing the necessary care and to keep our patients in the loop during this time. We encourage each patient to stay safe and healthy. For any questions, we encourage patients to contact us by calling or filling out our online form.
Dr. Kayastha is a board certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY and the entire Capital Region. Dr. Kayastha completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction in all subjects. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo. During his time in Buffalo he also completed a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. Following medical school Dr. Kayastha gained a much sought after position in the Michigan State-Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency. After finishing residency training Dr. Kayastha completed a one year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco. To round out his training before starting private practice Dr. Kayastha spent an additional 6 months learning from some of the best cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. Dr. Kayastha is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.