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Finding the right surgeon is a key element in the success of your plastic surgery procedure. You need to be sure that you feel comfortable with the surgeon you chose to undertake the work, and that you trust them enough to put your body in their hands. If you are choosing to undergo plastic surgery to boost your self-confidence, having a bad surgeon perform the surgery can be extremely detrimental to your body image and overall health.

Every plastic surgery procedure carries an element of risk, so knowing that your surgeon is fully qualified, experienced and able to cope should the worst happen is important for both your heath and peace of mind.

A Board-Certified Surgeon will need to meet a high standard of expectations and should be able to show their own expertise through their experience and example work.

Why Should I Choose A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?

It may surprise you to hear that any physician can call themselves a “cosmetic” surgeon even if they have little or no experience within that area.

A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon must complete a minimum of five years of surgical training following medical school, including a plastic surgery residency program. They are trained to prevent and handle emergencies, and have a comprehensive education to ensure a patient’s safety.

Plastic surgeons’ training allows them to develop their technical skill and aesthetic judgment. Experience gained during years of training in complex reconstructive surgery provides plastic surgeons with outstanding technical skills. They also continue to educate themselves with innovative new procedures through the Board and are constantly at the cutting edge of new technology.

A Board-certified plastic surgeon may specialize in a particular area of plastic surgery, but they are in theory, qualified to offer and advise upon a wide number of surgical procedures.

Finally, a Board-certified plastic surgeon will have hospital privileges meaning that a hospital has reviewed the training and malpractice history of a doctor and will allow the doctor to perform the procedure in the hospital. The review is performed by a committee of other doctors on staff at the hospital.

What Is the Board Anyway?

The American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc. was founded in June 1937 by representatives of various groups interested in this type of surgery, and has been the leading governing body ever since. It is their mission to promote safe, ethical, efficacious plastic surgery to the public by maintaining high standards for the education, examination, certification and maintenance of certification of plastic surgeons.

What Other Recommendations Should I Look For?

Any surgeon who is worth his salt, will be able to show you before and after photographs of procedures he has previously carried out. A picture really can speak a thousand words when you are looking to undertake a delicate operation.

You should also try to choose a surgeon with an excellent reputation. You can ask around your own social circles, or take recommendations from friends and family. If you want a more balanced view, ask your primary care physician for a recommendation.

Finally, never be scared to ask as many questions as you need to. Undergoing plastic surgery is a big decision and a respectable surgeon will understand your need for more information. Ask about the procedures you are considering, and let surgeon offer alternatives. Never let any surgeon put pressure on you to consider unnecessary additional procedures. The right surgeon will welcome your questions.

Here at Sarasota Plastic Surgery we offer a wide and varied array of cosmetic procedures. To find out more, call our helpful and friendly team today.