FAQ

At The LESS Institute we believe education brings empowerment. It is our goal to make you as informed as possible about your care.

These are some of the questions we hear the most:

How do you differ from your competition?

Our Less Exposure Surgery Philosophy sets us apart from other providers. Our safe, effective outpatient treatments help you recover quickly, avoid expensive hospital stays and return home to your family the same day in most cases.

Why aren’t more surgeons performing this type of procedure?

We are continually training more and more surgeons in the Less Exposure Surgery Philosophy and techniques.

Is Less Exposure Surgery covered by health care insurance?

Yes. Less Exposure Surgery is covered by most insurance companies, however we are out of network with most carriers. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid.

Are there other treatment options besides surgery?

We always strive to do the least amount of less invasive procedure to get our patients better. Other treatment options we offer are epidural injections, trigger point injections, medial branch blocks, rhizotomies, and arthroscopies.

How do I know this Less Exposure Surgery operation is the best option for me?

Each procedure is designed to help you reach your maximum functional ability. All of our surgeries are less invasive from incision to recovery time. This allows you to recuperate faster by preserving your anatomy.

Does my LESS Institute doctor perform this operation regularly?

Yes, Dr. Chin operates regularly all year long.

Is my doctor board-certified?

Yes, Dr. Chin is fellowship-trained and certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons.

How and where will my operation be performed?

All procedures are performed at carefully selected, state of the art, outpatient surgical centers. Although procedures vary, all of our doctors specialize in less exposure techniques that allow patients to go home the same day.

Is the surgical/outpatient facility accredited & properly staffed?

Yes all of the facilities we operate at are accredited by the proper agencies and equipped with the latest medical equipment. Surgies in an outpatient setting with proper staff are what we specialize in. We pride ourselves on excellent patient care in a safe environment that is efficient, compassionate and friendly.

What can I expect before the operation?

You will meet and greet with your S.E.R.V.E. team member to conduct a patient education class, At that time, you will be able to learn about all you need to prepare for your surgical procedure. All pre-and post instruction are provided that day. You also leave with important phone numbers and the name of your assigned concierge. Your concierge is available 24/7 to answer any calls during and after the surgery.

Will I need any special preparation – such as tests, lab work, blood thinners, or a change in my routine medications?

Yes, there will be a pre-screening clearance exam that is required to be completed at least 2 weeks prior to your surgery. The clearance exam includes Lab work, History & physical, EKG, Chest Xrays, and review of Medication. If you have history of Heart or Lung issues, you will need clearance from your Cardiologist and/or Pulmonologist. As for your medication routine, discontinue taking ASPIRIN or NSAID’s (Motrin, or Advil) for a minimum of 2 weeks before and after surgery.

Will I need to go on a special diet?

Good nutrition is important before surgery. Eating healthy and avoiding any unnecessary weight loss is optimum. We recommended a weight maintenance diet to have adequate nutrition before heading into surgery to ensure strength for post-surgery rehabilitation.

When do I have to stop eating and drinking before my procedure?

No eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your scheduled procedure. This includes no candy or gum.

What can I expect for my recovery in terms of treatment, medication, diet, and home care?

Take the pain medicine as directed by your doctor. Do not supplement the pain medication with over the counter medications. You need to give your body time to heal after your operation; however, you should not stay completely inactive. You should be out of bed and walking around to promote healing and reduce the risk of secondary medical issues such as blood clots. No sports activity except for walking and in some cases the use of an exercise bike for the first two weeks after surgery. Try to avoid sweating in the area of the incision to reduce risk of infection. (Note: There are no limits on stair climbing or sitting. Use your comfort level as an indicator of the length of time you are able to sit or climb stairs. Generally a person is comfortable sitting about 1 hour before a change in position or activity is needed). It is important to stay mobile after surgery. Sleep either on your belly or side as comfortable or a recliner.

What type of care will I have to provide for myself at home?

Take all the medications provided by your doctor. Do ice compressions every 20 min on 20 off every 3 to 4 hours to help with swelling. Do not wet your incision or remove steri strips, keep it covered and dry. Do not lift more than 4 to 5 pounds. Avoid extraneous exercises.

When will I be able to return to my regular activities
(work, lifting, driving, and exercise)?

We recommend seeing your Doctor 1 week post-op to make sure you are evaluated and cleared to return to work. Typically, most of our patients return to work after that one week check-up.

How can I contact you if I have more questions?

You can always reach your S.E.R.V.E. team member 24/7 via phone or by directly calling our office at
954-640-6010.