A Guide to Choosing the Best Plastic Surgeon

Having cosmetic surgery is a huge decision. It can change your life by improving how you look and feel about yourself. Plastic surgery can also correct a defect. If you are considering a cosmetic procedure, it is an exciting yet intimidating time for you. How do you find a plastic surgeon who will meet your expectations?

Here are tips to help you choose the best plastic surgeon:

Choose a Board-certified Surgeon

If you are considering cosmetic surgery, you want a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Visit the board's website to determine whether a particular surgeon has the relevant certification. 

When you pick a board-certified surgeon, you can rest assured that they completed the appropriate years of training in general surgery and plastic surgery. They also have to take oral and written tests. Furthermore, they must undergo continuous education and take a test every ten years.

You can also choose a surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. These are medical professionals with lots of experience in cosmetic surgery. Membership in this society is by invitation only. 

Get Referrals

Ask your primary physician for a referral list of the best cosmetic surgeons in your area. You can also ask your friends, family members, and other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Narrow down your list by researching each doctor's experience and credentials. Call each one to determine whether they are accepting new patients. If so, schedule a consultation appointment to learn more about the surgeon. 

Check the Plastic Surgeon's Record and Look for Experience

Visit your state's medical board's website to learn more about the surgeon. Cosmetic surgeons perform a wide range of procedures regularly. So, it is a good idea to ask about the surgeon's experience with the surgery you are considering having. 

Ensure the Surgeon Has Hospital Privileges

Even if your procedure is at an outpatient clinic, it is best to pick a surgeon with hospital privileges. Hospitals do careful background checks before granting operating privileges. They evaluate a surgeon's competency and training for specific procedures. It is a huge red flag if the surgeon does not have these privileges. 

Research Hospital or Clinic Quality

Consider the quality of care at the facility where the cosmetic surgeon treats patients. The quality of the facility matters because patients at high-quality facilities typically experience fewer complications and better results. You should also consider the hospital's location in case you need to go for tests or treatment. 

Other tips for choosing the best cosmetic surgeon include:

• Choose a surgeon with excellent communication skills. They should welcome questions and answer them in a way you can understand.

• Pick a surgeon with good patient reviews.

Conclusion

Having a skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon can make all the difference. It would help if you watched the TV show Botched to understand how dreadfully wrong things can go. Some of the botched procedures are nightmarish. The last thing you want is to be one of the people featured on such shows. You want your treatment to go perfectly and give you beautiful results.

For more on cosmetic surgery, visit Aron Kressel, MD, at our Park Avenue, New York office. Call 212-772-6968 to schedule an appointment today.