Frequently Asked

Questions.

Your Questions Answered at May Plastic Surgery


for procedures, recovery, and natural results.

General FAQs

Is Dr. May board-certified in plastic surgery?

Yes, Dr. May is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the gold standard in plastic surgery certification. He graduated from Duke University School of Medicine and completed his plastic surgery residency at UT Southwestern, one of the nation's top programs, where he also served as Administrative Chief Resident. Dr. May is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society (formerly known as ASAPS).

What makes May Plastic Surgery different from other Charlotte practices?

At May Plastic Surgery, we combine technical excellence with genuine, personalized care that makes you feel like you're confiding in a trusted friend. Dr. May takes the time to understand not just your aesthetic goals but also what motivates you in your journey toward renewed confidence. Our practice offers comprehensive surgical and nonsurgical options in a warm, luxurious environment where no one leaves feeling rushed or unheard.

How do you ensure patient safety?

Patient safety is our absolute priority. All surgeries are performed at accredited surgical facilities with expert anesthesia providers, including board-certified anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).. Before surgery, we conduct a thorough review of each patient's health history and will never proceed if the risks outweigh the benefits, or if the surgery will not provide meaningful results. We'll always be honest with you, even if that means recommending against surgery. Afterward, Dr. May personally oversees your recovery and is available 24/7 for any concerns. 

What should I expect during the consultation process?

Your consultation is a genuine conversation where we discuss your concerns, goals and medical history in a comfortable, non-clinical setting. Dr. May performs a physical exam and provides honest recommendations about what's achievable. You'll receive a customized treatment plan and have plenty of time to ask questions. This is your space to explore what's right for you, without pressure.

Plastic Surgery FAQs

How should I prepare for surgery?

In general, we request all patients to stop smoking or vaping at least six weeks before surgery, as nicotine use can negatively impact the healing process. We also recommend discontinuing blood-thinning medications or supplements, such as aspirin, fish oil or vitamin E, and limiting alcohol use. To ensure optimal safety and results, our team provides patients with detailed pre- and post-operative instructions, and we are available to answer any questions that may arise!

When can I return to work after surgery?

Most patients with desk jobs can return to work within a few days to one week after breast and body surgery. For facial surgery, this can sometimes be 10-14 days to allow swelling and bruising to subside. Patients with more physically demanding jobs may need more time away from work. The exact timeline varies based on your specific procedure and how quickly you heal. Dr. May will provide personalized recovery timelines for each patient based on the surgery that you and he determine best fits your needs. We can even provide work notes for modified duty when appropriate.

Will I have visible scars?

All surgery involves incisions, but Dr. May uses meticulous techniques to minimize visible scarring. Incisions are placed in natural creases of the body or in areas covered by clothing whenever possible. To ensure the best possible results, we provide detailed scar care instructions and treatments to help incision lines fade over time. Most patients find their scars are barely noticeable and well worth the renewed confidence surgery often provides.

What type of anesthesia is used during surgery?

The type of anesthesia depends on your procedure. Minor procedures may use local anesthesia and/or mild sedation, while more extensive surgeries require general anesthesia administered by our expert anesthesia providers. We discuss anesthesia options during your consultation and tailor the approach to ensure your comfort and safety.

Medspa/Nonsurgical FAQs

What’s the difference between neurotoxins (like Botox) and fillers?

Botox temporarily relaxes muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles from expressions like frowning, squinting or smiling and is perfect for treating things like crow's feet and forehead lines. Fillers add or restore volume to areas that have lost fullness, and work to enhance features like the lips or cheeks or even to smooth lines and facial folds by providing a plumping effect. Many patients benefit from combining both for more natural and comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Is there any downtime after injectable treatments?

Most patients return to normal activities immediately after injectable treatments. Many patients will pop in during lunch breaks and return to work right after! You might experience mild swelling or bruising that resolves within a few days to a week. We advise you to avoid working out for 24 hours after your treatment to help reduce the risk of these side effects. We also recommend scheduling treatments at least two weeks before important events to ensure you’re fully recovered!

How long before I see my final results?

In most cases, results are visible immediately after surgery and continue to refine over the following weeks and months as swelling subsides. Most patients see significant improvements after six to eight weeks, with final results emerging around the six-month mark as residual swelling completely resolves and the tissues settle into their new positions. 

How long do nonsurgical treatments last?

The longevity of nonsurgical treatments can vary. Neurotoxins like Botox or Dysport typically last three to four months, while fillers can last anywhere from six to 18 months depending on the product used and the area treated. Other nonsurgical treatments, such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels and microneedling, provide long-lasting results that can be kept up over time with regular maintenance treatments. 

Will my results look overly dramatic or obvious?

Dr. May’s approach emphasizes natural, elegant results that enhance your existing features, not drastically alter them. Our goal is for people to notice you look refreshed and confident, not wonder what you've had done. We start conservatively and can always add more if desired.

Pricing & Financing FAQs

Do you accept insurance?

At May Plastic Surgery, we specialize in elective cosmetic procedures, which are typically not covered by insurance plans. We focus on providing transparent pricing and flexible payment options to make your aesthetic goals accessible.

What financing options are available?

We offer financing through Cherry Financing. Cherry is a trusted healthcare lender that provides flexible monthly payment plans with an application process that takes just minutes to complete. Cherry is one of the few healthcare lenders that provide true 0% APR financing for select applicants.

Is a deposit required to book surgery?

Yes, a $2,000 booking fee secures your surgery date and applies directly toward your total. The remaining balance is due at your pre-operative visit, approximately two weeks before surgery.

What if I have to reschedule my surgery?

We understand that life happens. If you have to reschedule your surgery for any reason, you may do so once without penalty with at least 21 days’ notice at no charge. Our goal is to find a time that works best for you, so you can focus fully on your transformation and post-op healing. 

Still have
questions?

If you're curious about a specific procedure, wondering about timing or just want to talk through your options, we're here for you. Contact May Plastic Surgery today to start a conversation about your aesthetic goals and how we can help you feel truly at home in your own skin.

Contact Us

Real Patients, Real Stories

1
/
10
Follow us on Instagram @brianmaymd

Request Your Consultation

We invite you to schedule a private consultation to explore your options, ask questions, and receive personalized recommendations. At May Plastic Surgery, Dr. Brian May is committed to creating a treatment plan that reflects your goals and enhances your natural beauty with precision and care.

Any questions?

We are here to help. Reach out with any questions about our procedures, recovery process, or how to get started. Our team is ready to provide the guidance and information you need to feel confident moving forward.

  • This consent is not a condition of purchasing any goods or services.
  • Message frequency may vary.
  • Message and data rates may apply.
  • I can opt out at any time by replying “STOP.”
  • By opting in, I agree to the site's Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.
Thank you!
Your responses have been recorded and we’ll reach out to you soon to schedule your consultation
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.