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Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

Florida cosmetic surgery center explains what to look for when choosing a plastic or cosmetic surgeon

Choosing to obtain aesthetic treatments like Botox and facial fillers or electing to undergo a major plastic surgery procedure like a breast lift or breast augmentation is a heavy decision for anyone.

The next step of course is finding the right plastic surgeon to help you accomplish your goals.

Finding the right one can be a challenge however. With costs for common plastic surgery procedures decreasing over time, many doctors not specifically trained or licensed in plastic surgery may be offering these services when they and their staff do not possess the necessary training and certification.

So how do I make sure the surgeon I speak with is fully versed, trained and licensed to handle plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures?

Verify American Board of Plastic Surgery certification first then learn about their experience and practice

One of the first things to look for is a surgeon's certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a training and accreditation organization. Without it, you cannot ensure the surgeon has the necessary training to safely perform your desired procedure.

And it's important you independently verify this accreditation by visiting the ABPS website and doing a search. Don't simply take the surgeon's word for it.

Next, verify the amount of time the surgeon has been practicing medicine, specifically plastic surgery. Look for someone with a minimum of 6 years of surgical training and experience, with at least 3 of those years specifically targeted toward plastic and cosmetic surgery.

If the prospective surgeon is passing muster this far, take a look at their facilities and find out where they conduct their procedures. Are they done in-house or in a partnering hospital down the road? Either way, be sure the surgeon only operates in accredited medical facilities.

Also, be sure the plastic surgeon in question adheres to a strict code of ethics and fulfills continuing medical education requirements, including standards and innovations in patient safety. We all know the importance of education and sometimes need our memories refreshed on certain practices and procedures. Continuing education, re-certification and honest introspection are qualities we want in medical providers – plastic surgeons are no different.

Beyond accreditation, facilities and education, you need to be sure the surgeon is open to talking about your needs and concerns

Do they answer all of your questions in an honest and polite way? Do they offer alternatives when appropriate? Do they clearly state the risk of the procedure you're inquiring about?

And ultimately, they need to leave the decision to you without exerting pressure to go forward. This is a very personal decision and it should be done for you and only you, not to satisfy someone else's desires or to conform to some standard.

We ask that you take a moment and consider the exceptionally experienced Gainesville plastic surgeons at Accent Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. But no matter who you ultimately choose, be sure they are well qualified to safely handle your procedure.

‹ Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Knowledge Center