FAQS

Below are the most common questions and answers we get in our office on a daily basis. Some of the questions relate to insurance plans, what to bring to your office visit and what to tell your employer. Other questions relate to specific types of surgery that we perform. If you do not see your question/answer listed below, please call us at 702-739-6467 and we will be sure to assist you.

What insurance plans do you take?

We can see patients in the office with any type of insurance. Whether or not your insurance will cover the visit depends on our provider contracts, which change from time to time. We are preferred providers for most major insurers as well as Medicare and Medicaid. Please ask our receptionist when you call for an appointment at 702-739-6467. We often see patients on an out-of-network basis when they want to take advantage of our unique services and compassionate, comprehensive approach to patient care.

What should I bring to my office visit?

Please bring a picture ID, your insurance card, and a method of payment for any copays or deductibles due at the time of the visit. Also, bring a list of your medications and allergies. Finally, bring any relevant records such as biopsy reports, operative reports, x-ray or CT Scan reports and films, previous treatment summaries, and PAP smear results.

What should I tell my employer if I think I need surgery?

If you need to take time off from work to have surgery, you may need to apply for temporary disability. We charge a $25 fee to fill out disability forms or Federal FMLA forms for the patient having surgery. Any forms filled out for family members are subject to the $25 charge. Our staff makes every effort to fill out these forms in a timely manner and they generally complete these forms on Fridays. The typical turnaround time is one week.

What does a colon and rectal surgeon do?

Colorectal surgery is a subspecialty of general surgery that specializes in the evaluation and treatment of anal problems and intestinal disorders. Colorectal surgeons see patients with conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal incontinence, and rectal prolapse, as well as anal, rectal, and colon cancers. They also care for patients with diverticular disease of the colon, and they perform routine colonoscopies. In addition, they are specially trained to perform surgery on patients with Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Colorectal surgeons complete a General Surgery residency and then receive subspecialty “fellowship” training in colon and rectal surgery. Our practice offers minimally invasive surgery for selected patients and innovative approaches for the treatment of anorectal problems. In addition, we have a comprehensive testing center for fecal incontinence. Drs. Wishnev and Zhang are the only physicians in Las Vegas who perform anorectal ultrasound, an important part of the evaluation of rectal cancer and fecal incontinence.

What is the difference between a gynecologic oncologist and an OB/GYN?

Gynecologic Oncologists provide sub-specialty care to women with cancers or pre-cancers of the reproductive organs. They complete the same type of medical school and residency training as general OB/GYN’s. Then they undergo an additional 3 or 4 years of training in a “fellowship” that specializes in the comprehensive care of women with cancers of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, or vulva. This provides them with the experience and background to perform surgery, administer chemotherapy, direct radiation treatments in conjunction with radiation oncologists, and continue long-term surveillance of women with cancers of the female organs. Gynecologic Oncologists have extensive experience and training in performing complex pelvic surgery, and sometimes they also perform surgery on women who don’t necessarily have cancer but who need a complex operation. They do not provide any obstetrical care nor do they see patients for routine gynecologic exams or birth control counseling. There are many excellent OB/GYN’s in Las Vegas to provide these services.

What are some other websites you recommend I visit for information?

We recommend you visit these websites:

NotYourMothersHysterectomy.com – www.NotYourMothersHysterectomy.com
Drlynnkowalski.com – www.Drlynnkowalski.com
Society of Gynecologic Oncology – http://www.sgo.org/
United Ostomy Association – http://www.ostomy.org/
American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons – http://www.fascrs.org/

For more information about gynecologic cancers- sgo.org, cancer.gov, and acog.org

What is laser vaginal regeneration?

Dr. Lynn Kowalski is one of the first gynecologists in Southern Nevada to offer a new breakthrough technology that offers a quick, painless solution to the millions of women that suffer from vaginal problems related to menopause, childbirth, or urinary incontinence.

Menopause results in loss of hormones, and without them, the vagina can become painful or dry, especially during intercourse. Childbirth causes stretching of the vaginal tissues with permanent loss of tone, leading to a change in sensation with sex. In addition, many women suffer from loss of urine with laughing, coughing, sneezing, or with exercise. These health issues can often diminish a woman’s confidence and self-esteem, and even place a strain on sexual relations.

FemiLift uses the high-precision Alma CO2 laser to apply thermal energy that assists in vaginal mucosa revitalization, resulting in a tightening and lubricating effect.

This is a 5-minute in-office procedure that involves inserting a probe with a 360-degree rotation capability into the vagina. The treatment is painless, with no surgery, anesthesia, or downtime.