Interstate & Rural Patients
Interstate Patient Protocol: Clinical Management for Patients Travelling to Melbourne
Dr. Mansoor Mirkazemi and the team at Collins St Plastic Surgery operate on patients travelling from across Australia. To ensure the highest standards of clinical safety and post-operative care, we have established a structured protocol for interstate and rural patients, focusing on thorough pre-surgical assessment and mandatory local recovery periods.
The Consultation Process
In accordance with the AHPRA Guidelines (2023), the following consultation rules apply:
- Telehealth: An initial video consultation can be arranged to discuss your anatomical concerns, surgical options, and medical history.
- Mandatory In-Person Consultation: At least one face-to-face consultation with Dr. Mirkazemi is mandatory before any surgical procedure. This must occur at our Melbourne clinic to allow for a physical examination and a formal informed consent discussion.
- Cooling-Off Period: A minimum 7-day cooling-off period is required after the final consultation before surgery can proceed.
Minimum Stay Requirements in Melbourne
For patient safety, you must remain in Melbourne for a specified period following your surgery. This allows for immediate post-operative monitoring and the management of any early complications.
- Minor Procedures (e.g., Eyelid Surgery): Minimum 5–7 days.
- Major Procedures (e.g., Rhinoplasty, Breast Surgery): Minimum 7–14 days.
- Complex Procedures (e.g., Abdominoplasty, Combined Surgery): Minimum 14 days.
Travel & Flying Restrictions
Air travel presents unique physiological challenges, including changes in cabin pressure and an increased risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
- Fitness to Fly: You must receive a formal clinical clearance from Dr. Mirkazemi before booking your return flight.
- Short-Haul (under 3 hours): Typically restricted for 1–2 weeks post-surgery.
- Long-Haul (over 3 hours): Typically restricted for 3–4 weeks post-surgery.
- In-Flight Safety: When cleared to fly, patients are advised to wear compression stockings, maintain hydration, and perform regular calf exercises.
Accommodation Near Collins St Plastic Surgery
We recommend staying in the Melbourne CBD or immediate surrounds to ensure easy access to the clinic for follow-up appointments.
- Sofitel Melbourne on Collins: Located at the “Paris End” of Collins Street, offering proximity and high-standard amenities.
- The Westin Melbourne: Centrally located on Collins Street with accessible room options.
- Adina Apartment Hotel: Offers kitchen facilities, which can be beneficial for patients during longer recovery stays.
- Note: Your accommodation should be quiet, elevator-accessible, and have climate control to assist in managing post-surgical swelling.
Mandatory Support Person
All interstate patients must be accompanied by a responsible adult (friend, partner, or family member) for at least the first 72 hours following surgery. If you are travelling alone, we can assist in arranging a professional post-operative nursing service to stay with you at your hotel (Patient will be responsible for all associated costs) It is clinically unsafe to undergo major surgery and recover in a hotel room without supervision.
FAQ: Interstate Travel & Safety
Patients are not permitted to drive for at least 24–48 hours after general anesthesia, and longer if taking prescription pain medication. For long rural drives, you must be a passenger and stop every hour to walk and maintain circulation.
While we aim for a smooth recovery, complications can occur. If a clinical issue arises after you return interstate, you must contact our clinic immediately. In some cases, you may be required to return to Melbourne for a physical assessment or surgical management.
Coordination with Your Local GP
Before returning home, we recommend identifying a local General Practitioner who can assist with basic wound monitoring or suture removal if required. Dr. Mirkazemi’s team will provide a clinical discharge summary to your local doctor to ensure continuity of care.
About Dr Mirkazemi
Dr. Mansoor Mirkazemi, BMedSci, MBBS, FRACS
Dr. Mansoor Mirkazemi (MED0001200720) Registered medical practitioner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (Specialist Registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery).
Dr. Mirkazemi is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). He practices at Collins St Plastic Surgery.
