Maybe you've decided you're interested in plastic surgery. Perhaps it's something you've considered, but you need to know more about before you make a final decision. Either way, you'll need to find a reliable plastic surgeon. But how can you do that? After all, you want a doctor who's going to give you a good result, because you're going to have to look at his work for the rest of your life. Here are some guidelines to follow when you're trying to locate a reliable and reputable plastic surgeon.
Instructions
1. Be aware that anyone who is an M.D. can perform any operation, but that doesn't mean every doctor is qualified to do so. Typically, a surgeon's board certification is the best way to tell if he's been trained in a particular specialty. Check to see if the surgeon you're interested in has a certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This is the only recognized Board that certifies doctors as plastic surgery specialists.
2. Find out if the surgeon is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). An ASAPS membership means that not only is the doctor ABPS- certified, but also that she has performed a significant number of cosmetic surgery procedures. Membership is by invitation only, and only truly qualified surgeons are asked to join the ASAPS.
3. Ask about the doctor's range of experience. Reputable cosmetic surgeons have performed a wide range of aesthetic surgeries, from breast lifts to tummy tucks to liposuction, on a regular basis. Find out what the surgeon's level of experience is with the particular procedure you're interested in. Most doctors will also have a selection of "before" and "after" photos you can look at, in which patients have consented to be photographed so others can see their results. Feel free to ask for references; many doctors have patients who have offered to discuss their care if they're pleased with the work.
4. Check out where the surgeon has hospital privileges, and what facility the procedure will be performed in. Many aesthetic surgery procedures can be safely performed in a non-hospital surgical center, or an office-based surgical site. Find out what the surgeon's plan is in the event that you need emergency care during a routine surgery. Also, find out what is included in follow-up care, or what will happen in the event that you need a revision.
5. Meet with the surgeon and staff for a consultation. If he doesn’t answer all your questions to your satisfaction, or if you just plain feel uncomfortable with his manner, it's okay to go elsewhere to have your procedure done. After all, you're the one who has to live with the results.
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