I would think of it a lot if that's what you mean, or try to develop the idea in my mind enough or really quickly whilst developing the bio and plot/roll of the character as of now, but it usually doesn't take me too long to actually make the character itself. Like, mold it into its starting point after creation. Next stage is just roleplay and develop, if I ever do get to roleplay the character.
I usually just make... Uncommon sort of species in FeralHeart, or humanoids (Mainly Sci-Fi if that's what your wondering, like my made-up species, the hexxict) however, but again, not sure if it's either time that counts or all the basics that come into your (Or, in other words, my) head. I'm pretty much going with the basic stuff here, though. xD
TO SUM UP MY RAMBLING: I don't always spend a lot of time on it. Just think develop an idea in my head and, if I want to, make it.