How to Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon for You!
If you are considering plastic surgery, it is crucial to find a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to ensure you get the best possible results. With so many plastic surgeons out there, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. You want to know that your plastic surgeon will walk side by side with you through the whole plastic surgery journey, especially in the case of a complication which is always a risk that must be considered. So, how do you find a plastic surgeon you can trust?
What to watch out for when choosing a plastic surgeon?
If you find yourself wondering what to watch out for when choosing a plastic surgeon, then you have come to the right place. In this blog post, we discuss various factors to consider before choosing the right plastic surgeon for you.
1. Board Certification and Accreditation
The first step in choosing a plastic surgeon is to ensure they are board-certified. Board certification ensures that the plastic surgeon has completed the required training and education and has passed rigorous exams in their field. You can verify a plastic surgeon’s board certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery website.
In addition to board certification, it is essential to choose a plastic surgeon who works in an accredited facility. Accreditation ensures that the facility meets strict standards for patient safety and quality of care. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends that patients choose a plastic surgeon who operates in a facility accredited by either the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), or The Joint Commission (TJC).
You can check this website: Certification Matters | American Board of Medical Specialties
2. Experience
Another important factor to consider when choosing a plastic surgeon is their experience in performing the specific procedure you are considering. Ask the plastic surgeon how many times they have performed the procedure and how many they perform each year. Ask about their success rate and request before-and-after photos of their previous plastic surgery patients.
It is also essential to ask to see before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone the same plastic surgery procedure.
You can also ask the plastic surgeon about their experience with any complications that may arise during the procedure and how they would handle them. An experienced plastic surgeon will have a plan in place to manage any potential complications, and they will be transparent about the risks involved in the procedure.
3. Credentials and Memberships
In addition to board certification, it is essential to consider the plastic surgeon’s credentials and memberships in professional organizations. Look for a plastic surgeon who is a member of the ASPS or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). These organizations require members to meet specific criteria for education and training, ensuring that they are highly qualified in their field.
4. Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the plastic surgeon’s expertise, bedside manner, and overall patient satisfaction. You can find patient reviews on the plastic surgeon’s website, social media pages, and online review sites such as RealSelf and Yelp.
However, keep in mind that not all online reviews are trustworthy. Look for reviews that provide detailed information about the patient’s experience and avoid reviews that seem overly positive or negative. It is also essential to consider the overall trend of reviews rather than focusing on individual reviews.
5. Communication and Bedside Manner
Choosing a plastic surgeon is not just about their qualifications and experience. It is also essential to choose a plastic surgeon who has excellent communication skills and a compassionate bedside manner. During your consultation, pay attention to how the plastic surgeon listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and explains the procedure and the potential risks and benefits.
A good plastic surgeon will take the time to understand your goals and expectations and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your concerns and achieves the results you desire. They should also be able to explain the procedure in a way that is easy to understand and provide you with realistic expectations for the outcome.
6. Facilities and Equipment
In addition to choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon who works in an accredited facility, it is also important to consider the quality of the facilities and equipment. Look for a plastic surgeon who operates in a modern, state-of-the-art facility with up-to-date equipment and technology. The facility should also have trained and experienced staff to assist with the procedure and provide high-quality aftercare.
7. Price
Price should not be the primary factor in choosing a plastic surgeon. The most important thing is that YOU feel 100% comfortable with your plastic surgeon. Choosing a plastic surgeon based on price alone can be a costly and dangerous mistake. It is important to choose a plastic surgeon based on their qualifications, experience, credentials, patient reviews, communication skills, and the quality of their facilities and equipment.
While cost is certainly a factor to consider, it should not be the primary factor in your decision-making process. By researching and choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, you can ensure the best possible results and minimize the risk of complications. If you find a plastic surgeon you really like, but can’t afford, you will need to save a little bit more. Always prioritize your safety.
Summary
As you can see there are various things to consider when looking for the best plastic surgeon. When you want to find the best plastic surgeon consider the following: board certification and accreditation, experience, credentials and memberships, patient reviews and testimonials, communication and bedside manner, facilities and equipment, and price.
The most important factor is that you feel 100% comfortable with your decision!