Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Panossian specializes in facial paralysis from all causes — including Bell's palsy, Moebius syndrome, acoustic neuroma, traumatic injury, synkinesis, congenital paralysis, neurofibromatosis, and post-surgical nerve damage. He also performs a full range of aesthetic procedures including rhinoplasty, deep plane facelift, blepharoplasty, breast surgery, body contouring, and non-surgical treatments.
The best way to determine candidacy is through a consultation — either in person or via secure video. Dr. Panossian will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, assess nerve and muscle function, and discuss the full range of surgical options available to you. Even patients who have been told "nothing can be done" may have options they haven't been presented with.
Yes. We offer secure video consultations for patients who are unable to travel to Pasadena for an initial evaluation. This is particularly helpful for out-of-state and international patients. During the virtual consultation, Dr. Panossian can review your medical history, examine photographs, and provide preliminary recommendations. An in-person evaluation is required before surgery can be scheduled. See traveling to Pasadena for surgery for what that involves.
Recovery varies depending on the procedure. For gracilis free muscle transfer, most patients return to normal daily activities within 2–3 weeks, but nerve regeneration and full muscle function develop over 6–18 months. For LTM, movement is typically visible immediately after surgery with continued improvement over several months. Dr. Panossian will provide a detailed recovery timeline specific to your surgical plan.
The Lengthening Temporalis Myoplasty (LTM) is a single-stage procedure that repositions an existing muscle to create a smile — providing immediate movement. The gracilis free muscle transfer transplants a muscle from the thigh and reconnects it microsurgically — typically producing more spontaneous, emotion-driven movement but requiring months of nerve regeneration. Dr. Panossian will recommend the approach that best fits your anatomy, goals, and clinical situation.
Dr. Panossian approaches every rhinoplasty with the precision of a reconstructive surgeon. His deep understanding of nasal anatomy — honed through thousands of complex facial surgeries — means he can address both cosmetic concerns and functional issues like breathing difficulty. Every rhinoplasty is planned to achieve a natural result that harmonizes with your overall facial proportions while respecting your identity.
You receive a Good Faith Estimate with the full expected cost in writing before a surgical date is held. Reconstructive procedures are often covered through out-of-network benefits when the condition affects function; cosmetic procedures are not covered by any plan. See cost and insurance for the detail.
Yes. Dr. Panossian has extensive experience with pediatric facial paralysis, including Moebius syndrome and congenital conditions. His fellowship training in pediatric plastic surgery provides specialized expertise in operating on children. The timing of surgery depends on the specific condition, the child's age and development, and the type of procedure recommended. Early consultation is encouraged so families can plan appropriately.
Yes. For patients who prefer to spread the cost of their procedure over time, financing is available through CareCredit and Cherry — two trusted healthcare lending providers that offer flexible payment plans with a range of terms. Cherry provides personalized monthly payment options, while CareCredit offers promotional financing periods for qualified applicants. Our surgical coordinators can walk you through the application process and help you find a plan that fits your budget. Contact our office at (626) 765-6885 or request a consultation to learn more.
Coming from out of town?
Most patients who come here for reconstructive surgery do not live in California. Every out-of-area evaluation begins with a video consultation, and where it is clinically appropriate the pre-operative visit, the surgery, and your first follow-up are consolidated into a single trip.
Traveling to Pasadena for surgery covers how long to plan to stay for each procedure, when you can fly home, the caregiver requirement, airports and lodging, and terms for international patients.
Understanding Your Options
Reconstructive Surgery: This practice is out of network with every health plan, which does not mean insurance pays nothing. Reconstructive procedures are often covered through your out-of-network benefits when the condition affects function. How insurance works for reconstructive surgery sets out what plans typically cover, what they do not, and what you would be responsible for.
Aesthetic Surgery: Cosmetic procedures are typically not covered by insurance. We offer transparent pricing with detailed quotes provided during your consultation. Financing is available through CareCredit and Cherry, with plans that let you spread the cost over time.
Questions? Our surgical coordinators are available to discuss insurance, costs, and financing at any time. Call (626) 765-6885 or request a consultation to get started.
Your First Visit
Your first appointment with Dr. Panossian is a comprehensive consultation — typically lasting 45–60 minutes. He will review your medical history, perform a thorough examination, discuss your condition and goals, and explain the full range of treatment options available to you.
This is not a high-pressure sales environment. Dr. Panossian believes in informed decision-making — he'll give you the information you need, answer every question, and let you decide on your own timeline. Many patients schedule their consultation months before they're ready for surgery, and that's perfectly fine.
What to bring: Photo ID, insurance card (if applicable), relevant medical records or imaging, a list of current medications, and any questions you'd like to discuss. If you've seen other physicians for your condition, bringing those records helps Dr. Panossian provide the most informed assessment.
Patient Forms
Download and complete your patient forms before your appointment to streamline your check-in process.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help. Whether you need information about a specific procedure, insurance, or travel logistics — reach out and we'll get you the answers you need.