You can find plastic surgeons simply by looking in the yellow pages or online, but to find a qualified doctor who is experienced in tummy tucks takes considerably more effort. A referral through a medical professional is probably the ideal way to find a doctor for a tummy tuck---or "abdominoplasty," as it is officially known. National associations usually offer a referral service; doctors need to meet several requirements to become a member in good standing.
Instructions
1. Ask your doctor. Whether you ask your dermatologist, general practitioner or OB/GYN, your doctor is certain to know an experienced plastic surgeon by reputation or personally. This is a good starting place for finding a doctor to perform your abdominoplasty.
2. Contact medical centers and hospitals. Most hospitals have plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery departments. Most hospitals also provide referral to find doctors on staff. With a referral service such as this, you only get names of doctors in a particular specialty and not much more information.
3. Contact your health insurance provider. While many insurance policies state that elective surgery is not covered, some do pay for cosmetic procedures. Contact your insurance company to get the names of plastic or cosmetic surgeons that accept your insurance plan.
4. Contact state or national medical associations. The ASPS or American Society of Plastic Surgeons offers a doctor locator feature on its site. You can find doctors who specialize in tummy tucks, breast augmentation, facelifts and other procedures. All members of the ASPS must meet strident requirements such as number of years of experience and medical board certifications. The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons (AACS) has a "Surgeon Finder" feature to help a person locate a doctor by state, city and procedure.
5. Read the "Consumer's Guide to Top Doctors." This book offers a listing of medical specialists by state. The doctors listed are often recommended in doctor surveys. The book is available in the reference section of the local library.
6. Ask friends, family and colleagues. While many people are loathe to admit they have had plastic surgery, some people are forthright about it. These are the people to ask for recommendations. Even if they haven't had a tummy tuck, they can still give you the names of cosmetic or plastic surgeons they have worked with and who may do the type of procedure you want.
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