The Patient Journey

About the Practice

About the Practice · Patient Care

Dr. Lew-Gor and his team are committed to providing careful, attentive care throughout every stage of your experience with the clinic. From your initial enquiry through consultation, treatment and recovery, the focus is always on thoughtful guidance, clear communication and patient wellbeing.

We recognise that every patient arrives with their own concerns, expectations and story. Consultations are designed to allow time for careful listening, considered assessment and open discussion, so that treatment options can be explored with clarity and confidence.

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Your Journey at a Glance

Obtain a GP referral

Contact the clinic

First consultation with Dr. Lew-Gor

Second consultation and treatment plan

Sign consent and observe cooling-off period

Pre-operative preparation

Surgery in an accredited private hospital

Post-operative care and follow-up

Our Surgical Philosophy

The Surgical Jourmey

"No two faces age in the same way, because no two faces are built the same way."

A Surgeon's Approach to Facial Assessment

Safeguards Designed to Protect Patients

Recent regulatory changes in Australia require that patients have adequate time, information and independent medical guidance before proceeding with cosmetic surgery. Dr. Lew-Gor and his team fully support these standards. The process is structured to support careful decision-making, not to complicate it.

GP Referral

A referral from a general practitioner or registered medical practitioner is required before attending a surgical consultation.

02 — Analysis

Two Consultations

Two separate consultations within the practice are required before surgery can proceed, allowing time for assessment, discussion and reflection.

Consent After the Second

Consent for cosmetic surgery may only be given after the second consultation. It cannot be formalised at the first appointment.

Seven-Day Cooling-Off

A mandatory seven-day cooling-off period follows the signing of consent. No surgical fees may be accepted during this time.

These regulations have been introduced to support thoughtful decision-making and to ensure patients have sufficient time to fully understand their options. The team at this practice is experienced in guiding patients through each requirement clearly and without unnecessary complexity.

read about Patient Information

Step by Step

Your Journey with the Practice

Each step is designed to ensure that patients arrive at treatment well informed, carefully prepared, and confident in their decision.

Before You Contact Us

Obtain a GP Referral

Under current Australian regulations, a referral from a general practitioner or another registered medical practitioner is required before attending a surgical consultation. The practice team is happy to advise what information is required from your referring doctor and to assist in making this as straightforward as possible.

Getting in Touch

Contact the Clinic

The first step is to contact the clinic and speak with one of the experienced nursing staff. The team will provide information about the practice and guide you through the process of arranging a consultation. They can assist with general enquiries regarding appointments, referral requirements and the consultation process. This initial conversation ensures patients are appropriately prepared and have a clear understanding of the next steps.

With Dr. Lew-Gor · Personally

First Consultation

Your first consultation is conducted personally by Dr. Sim Lew-Gor. This appointment is designed to provide time for careful discussion and thoughtful assessment of your concerns, expectations and treatment goals. Dr. Lew-Gor will listen carefully to what you hope to achieve and perform a detailed evaluation of facial structure, balance and underlying anatomy. He will then discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate, including both surgical and non-surgical approaches where relevant.

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Treatment Planning

Second Consultation

The second consultation provides an opportunity to discuss your concerns, goals and preferences in further detail. Dr. Lew-Gor will outline his recommended approach and work with you to develop an individualised treatment plan. The consultation will include discussion of both surgical and non-surgical options, together with the option of not proceeding at all. You will also receive detailed information on the proposed procedure, potential risks and complications, recovery requirements, expected healing timelines, and a comprehensive estimate of the total costs involved.

Regulatory Requirement

Consent and Cooling-Off Period

Consent for cosmetic surgery may only be given after the second consultation. Following the signing of consent, a mandatory seven-day cooling-off period applies. During this period no booking or professional fees relating to the surgery may be accepted. This period exists to support careful reflection and ensure that the decision to proceed is made without pressure or urgency.

Pre-Operative Planning

Preparing for Surgery

Once you have decided to proceed, the clinical team will assist with careful planning and organisation of your procedure. You will be provided with detailed guidance regarding all aspects of preparation, including pre-operative requirements, hospital arrangements and the recovery process. As the date of your procedure approaches, you will attend a pre-operative appointment. During this visit any final preparations will be completed and, where appropriate, supportive skin treatments may be recommended to optimise skin condition prior to surgery.

Accredited Private Hospital

Your Surgery

All procedures are performed in fully accredited private hospitals, where experienced anaesthetists, specialised theatre staff and modern facilities support the highest levels of surgical care. Dr. Lew-Gor works closely with an established operating theatre team who are familiar with his surgical techniques and standards. Depending on the nature of the procedure, patients may return home on the same day or remain in hospital overnight for observation and recovery.

Post-Operative Care

Aftercare and Follow-Up

Care following surgery is an essential part of achieving a refined and stable result. Following your procedure, patients are reviewed at regular intervals so that Dr. Lew-Gor can personally assess healing and guide recovery. Patients are provided with detailed post-operative instructions and are encouraged to remain in contact with the practice should any concerns arise. Many patients feel comfortable returning to certain social activities within approximately two weeks, though personalised guidance will be provided on activity levels and return to routines.

Steps 03 & 04

Your Consultations with Dr. Lew-Gor

Both consultations are conducted personally by Dr. Lew-Gor. Each has a distinct purpose and provides a different stage of the planning process.

First Consultation · Step 03

Assessment and Discussion

Your first consultation is designed to provide time for careful discussion and thoughtful assessment of your concerns, expectations and treatment goals. Dr. Lew-Gor will listen carefully to what you hope to achieve and perform a detailed evaluation of facial structure, balance and underlying anatomy.

He will then discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate, including both surgical and non-surgical approaches where relevant. The purpose is not to rush decisions, but to ensure that any treatment is considered carefully and with a clear understanding of the process involved.

Careful listening to your concerns, goals and expectations

Detailed evaluation of facial structure, balance and underlying anatomy

Discussion of appropriate surgical and non-surgical options

Explanation of Dr. Lew-Gor's surgical approach and principles

Overview of techniques that may be considered for your case

Realistic discussion of outcomes that can be expected

Time for questions — no pressure to make a decision

To arrange your consultation

Contact the clinic in Melbourne or Wagga Wagga. The team will guide you through the referral requirements and help organise your appointment.

Second Consultation · Step 04

Treatment Plan and Decision

The second consultation provides an opportunity to discuss your concerns, goals and preferences in further detail. Dr. Lew-Gor will conduct a thorough clinical assessment and outline his recommended approach, working with you to develop an individualised treatment plan.

The consultation will include discussion of both surgical and non-surgical options, together with the option of not proceeding at all. The aim is always to ensure that patients are able to make decisions with a clear understanding of the available choices.

Full details of the proposed procedure and recommended approach

Potential risks and complications relevant to your individual case

Recovery and aftercare requirements specific to your procedure

Expected healing timelines and activity limitations

The possibility of further or revisional treatment if required

A comprehensive estimate of all associated costs

Time to consider the information before making any decision

After this consultation

Consent may only be given after this second appointment. A mandatory seven-day cooling-off period then applies before any surgical fees may be accepted — a regulatory requirement designed to support unhurried decision-making.

"Our role is not simply to perform surgery well. It is to ensure that every patient arrives at the right decision, and then to support them through it."

From the first phone call to the last follow-up appointment, every stage of the patient experience at this practice is managed with the same standard of care and attention that goes into the surgical work itself.

Step 06 — Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for Your Procedure

Once you have decided to proceed with treatment, the experienced clinical team will assist with the careful planning and organisation of your procedure. You will be provided with detailed guidance regarding all aspects of preparation, including pre-operative requirements, hospital arrangements and the recovery process following your procedure.

Clear instructions will also be given regarding post-operative care, follow-up appointments and the practical steps required to support optimal healing. Throughout this process the team remains available to answer any questions and to ensure that you feel informed, prepared and comfortable as your surgery approaches.

As the date of your procedure draws nearer, you will attend a pre-operative appointment with the clinic. During this visit any final preparations will be completed and, where appropriate, supportive skin treatments may be recommended to optimise the condition of the skin prior to surgery.

Pre-operative guidance covers

Pre-operative health and medical requirements specific to your procedure

Hospital arrangements and what to expect on the day of surgery

Medications to avoid and dietary instructions in the lead-up to surgery

Practical arrangements for your recovery, including assistance at home

Pre-operative appointment to finalise preparations closer to the date

Skin preparation treatments where appropriate prior to surgery

Written post-operative instructions provided in advance of the procedure

The Dr. sim lew-gor Clinical Team

The team remains available throughout the pre-operative period to answer questions and ensure you feel informed and supported as your procedure approaches. No question is too small to ask.

During Your Procedure

What to Expect on the Day

Dr. Lew-Gor personally performs all critical aspects of each procedure, including the surgical planning, the operation itself and the precise closure of incisions. This ensures consistency of technique and the highest level of surgical attention throughout.

Surgical procedures are typically performed under general anaesthesia, administered by an experienced specialist anaesthetist who oversees all aspects of anaesthesia and pain management during and after the procedure.

All procedures performed in fully accredited private hospitals

Experienced theatre team familiar with Dr. Lew-Gor's technique

General anaesthesia administered by specialist anaesthetist

Day procedure or overnight stay depending on the procedure

Dr. Lew-Gor personally performs all critical aspects of surgery

After Your Procedure

Recovery and Ongoing Care

Attentive post-operative care is a fundamental part of this practice. Following surgery, patients are reviewed at regular intervals so that Dr. Lew-Gor can personally assess healing at each stage.

The aim of this careful follow-up is to support a safe recovery and to ensure that results continue to refine naturally over time. The team remains available throughout the healing process to answer questions and provide reassurance.

Regular clinic reviews with Dr. Lew-Gor personally

Detailed post-operative instructions provided on discharge

Team available for questions and reassurance throughout recovery

Personalised guidance on activity levels and return to routines

Results continue to refine gradually over weeks and months

Patients Travelling for Surgery

Care for Patients from Elsewhere

Dr. Lew-Gor regularly welcomes patients who travel from interstate or overseas to seek his care. The clinic team is experienced in assisting visiting patients and can help coordinate consultation scheduling, procedure planning and accommodation arrangements.

For patients recovering in Melbourne or Wagga Wagga, the practice recommends a selection of carefully chosen nearby hotels known for their comfort, privacy and convenient location close to the clinic and hospital facilities.

Where appropriate, consultations and certain follow-up appointments may also be arranged to accommodate travel schedules, ensuring that patients receive attentive care while maintaining a practical and well-organised treatment journey.

The clinic team will be pleased to assist with planning your visit so that your consultation, treatment and recovery can proceed in a calm and carefully organised manner.

Location

Melbourne

Consulting rooms and affiliated private hospital facilities in Melbourne, Victoria. Convenient access from interstate and international travel.

Location

Wagga Wagga

Consulting rooms in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, supported by modern private hospital facilities. Convenient for patients across regional New South Wales.

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Privacy & Discretion

A Discreet and Confidential Environment

Respect for patient privacy is an important part of the care provided at this practice. We understand that many patients value discretion when attending consultations or undergoing treatment. Every effort is made to ensure that visits to the clinic are conducted in a calm, professional and confidential environment.

Many patients lead professional or public lives where confidentiality is particularly important. The team is experienced in providing a discreet and carefully managed environment for consultations and treatment.

Where additional privacy arrangements are preferred, the team will be pleased to assist. Patients are welcome to discuss any particular requirements in advance so that appropriate preparations can be made for their visit.

Private Consulting Rooms

Designed to support private and discreet access for all patients.

Concealed On-Site Parking

Private parking available to avoid visibility from the main street.

Alternative Entrance

A separate entrance away from the main street is available for patients who prefer additional discretion.

Confidential Scheduling

Appointment and communication arrangements can be adapted to individual privacy preferences on request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions most commonly raised about the patient journey and consultation process.

Am I a suitable candidate for surgery?

Suitability depends on a number of factors, including general health, facial structure, skin quality and individual goals. During consultation, Dr. Lew-Gor will undertake a detailed clinical assessment and discuss whether surgery is appropriate for your circumstances. Where relevant, alternative approaches or non-surgical options may also be considered. The aim is always to ensure that any procedure recommended is safe, appropriate and capable of achieving a natural and balanced result.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lew-Gor?

Yes. Under current Australian regulations governing cosmetic surgery, a referral from a general practitioner or another registered medical practitioner is required before attending a consultation. The practice team will be pleased to guide you through this process and advise what information is required from your referring doctor.

Is there a consultation fee?

Yes. Consultations with Dr. Lew-Gor involve detailed clinical assessment, discussion of treatment options and surgical planning, and therefore attract a professional consultation fee. Where applicable, patients may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for part of this fee. The consultation fee is $300 AUD and is non-redeemable.

Is there any rebate available for surgery?

In certain circumstances where surgery is performed for medical or functional reasons, Medicare and some private health insurers may contribute to part of the cost. Eligibility depends on the specific indication for surgery, the procedure involved and your individual level of health insurance cover. These matters are clarified following consultation, and patients are encouraged to confirm details directly with their insurer.

How natural will the results look?

A central principle of Dr. Lew-Gor's approach is to achieve refined, natural-looking results that enhance facial harmony without creating an operated appearance. The goal of facial surgery is not to alter a person's identity, but to restore balance, definition and youthful structure while preserving the unique character of the face.

How long does recovery usually take?

Recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure performed and individual healing patterns. Many patients feel comfortable returning to certain social activities after approximately two weeks, although mild swelling and gradual refinement of results may continue for several weeks or months. Dr. Lew-Gor will provide personalised guidance regarding recovery expectations and the gradual return to normal routines.

What are the risks of surgery?

All surgical procedures involve potential risks. Dr. Lew-Gor takes meticulous care in the planning and performance of surgery, as well as in post-operative care, to minimise the likelihood of complications. During consultation, the potential risks and considerations relevant to your individual circumstances will be discussed in detail, and written information will be provided to support informed decision-making.

Does Dr. Lew-Gor perform all aspects of the surgery?

Yes. Dr. Lew-Gor personally performs all critical aspects of each procedure, including the surgical planning, the operation itself and the precise closure of incisions. This ensures consistency of technique and the highest level of surgical attention throughout the procedure.

How far in advance should surgery be planned?

Patients are generally advised to allow adequate time for consultation, thoughtful planning and recovery before any significant social or professional commitments. Many patients choose to schedule surgery several months in advance, particularly when planning around travel, work responsibilities or important personal events.

What type of anaesthesia is used?

Surgical procedures are typically performed under general anaesthesia, administered by an experienced specialist anaesthetist. The anaesthetist will oversee all aspects of anaesthesia and pain management throughout the procedure and during the early stages of recovery. Dr. Lew-Gor works with experienced anaesthetic specialists who are skilled in patient safety and peri-operative monitoring.

The Patient Journey

The Surgical Jourmey