Plastic surgery can be performed on many different areas of the body, including the face, arms, and abdomen. It can be used for cosmetic reasons or to correct physical abnormalities or defects, improving appearance and function. The surgeon you choose can affect your final results, potential risks and complications, and recovery period. Here are five tips to help you find the best plastic surgeon for your specific goals:
1. Confirm Board Certification
A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed a residency program and is licensed to practice medicine. They have also completed rigorous training and passed the certification exam in their surgical specialty.
Check if your potential surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Board-certified surgeons are required to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in plastic surgery through ongoing education and training.
If you are unsure about the plastic surgeon’s certification, check with the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). A surgeon with a board certification approved by ABMS means they went through multiple years of rigorous training and passed a written and oral exam.
You can also check if the surgeon is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This indicates a commitment to upholding the highest standards of care and ethics in their practice. By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, you can receive care from a highly trained and educated specialist.
A plastic surgeon can be board certified for hand surgeries with the certification Surgery of the Hand (SOTH). Plastic surgeons with this certification are highly qualified to treat hand diseases and traumas.
2. Look for Surgical Facility Accreditation
Choosing a surgeon at an accredited facility can be beneficial for an improved plastic surgery experience. Accredited facilities are required to follow strict guidelines and meet rigorous standards for patient safety and surgical quality.
This is to make sure patients receive the highest level of care from the best plastic surgeons. They have proper equipment, trained staff, and emergency protocols in place, providing a safe and sterile environment for your surgery. This contributes to a lowered risk of complications and infections during your procedure.
Some accrediting organizations you can look for include the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospital Organizations (JCAHO). A facility that participates in the Title XVIII Medicare program or has state licensure is also considered to be accredited.
3. Inquire About Specific Surgical Experience
Different plastic surgery procedures require different techniques, methods, and skills. A surgeon with extensive experience in a particular procedure can better understand the details involved. They can take an individualized approach to meet your unique needs and goals.
If you’re having a facelift, a facial plastic surgeon may tailor the procedure to address your specific concerns, such as sagging skin or wrinkles. They can also aim to minimize scarring and other unwanted side effects, helping you achieve your desired results in a way that complements your natural face.
To determine if your plastic surgeon is experienced in the procedure you want, ask for an estimated number of procedures performed and their success rate. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon should be able to answer your questions confidently and transparently. Whether you are seeing a surgeon for body contouring, implants, or a non-surgical procedure, you should be able to trust your doctor.
4. Schedule a Thorough Patient Consultation
A professional plastic surgeon should listen carefully to your goals, expectations, and concerns. This can help them create a personalized surgical plan that delivers optimal results. An initial consultation typically covers your medical history, including lifestyle choices, medications, and any previous surgeries.
The surgeon may advise you on which cosmetic options best suit your needs. They can also outline the surgical procedure and detail any potential risks or complications to help you make an informed decision.
A thorough consultation can provide an understanding of the intended procedure and allow you to express your concerns fully. This may help ease your anxieties and establish a strong foundation of trust with your surgeon.
The conversation can also help determine if your goals will be met and if the chosen surgeon is your ideal match. Make sure your surgeon has good communication skills to make you feel comfortable and confident throughout your plastic surgery process.
You should inquire about surgery aftercare before the procedure so you can determine if you will need to make accommodations. Some procedures have a short recovery time while others require a much longer rest period. Your surgeon should not downplay any aftercare necessities so you can feel fully prepared and comfortable.
5. Review Before and After Photos
You can evaluate a surgeon’s skills by reviewing before and after photos of their patients. These photos showcase the surgeon’s work and give you a clearer understanding of the potential results you could expect.
Review multiple images while paying close attention to patients with similar body types and desired outcomes to yours. When reviewing photos, look for consistency in the results. The photos should show you what is possible without setting unrealistic expectations.
Look for any signs of scarring around the treatment area. The goal is to show little to no signs of surgery. Tell the surgeon what things you dislike and like about the results. An experienced plastic surgeon should have numerous photos and examples to show you either online or in-office. A surgeon with very few examples may mean they are inexperienced.
Choose the Best Plastic Surgeon
When considering any cosmetic surgery, look for a professional plastic surgeon with the proper board certification and qualifications. Also ensure the medical facility is accredited by reputable organizations.
A good plastic surgeon will provide a personalized approach that caters to your individual body and goals. They will be able to offer before and after photos and testimonials from previous patients.
They should answer your questions and be completely transparent. Consider the tips discussed here to choose the best plastic surgeon for your cosmetic needs.
