When deciding to have cosmetic surgery, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is choosing your plastic surgeon. With so many surgeons performing cosmetic procedures these days, it can often be an overwhelming decision, especially when it comes to deciding between bedside manner and board certification. Thankfully, if you make your selection wisely, you can find a surgeon who really “gets” you and who has the medical know-how to make your procedure a great success.
Why Board Certification Matters
In order for a plastic surgeon to be board certified, he or she must meet and adhere to a high standard of training, ethics, practice and ongoing research. Choosing a surgeon who has attained board certification is one way patients can be sure their doctor is well-trained and educated and has adequate experience in cosmetic procedures.
Listen to Your Gut
Even a highly qualified board certified plastic surgeon may not be the right fit for you if you simply don’t feel comfortable with him or her for some reason. It’s extremely important for patients to evaluate their prospective surgeon on a personal level, beginning with the initial consultation. You are trusting this person with your body and your health, so make sure your gut tells you the same thing as the framed diploma on the wall: that your doctor is trustworthy and competent.
The Best of Both Worlds
The ideal cosmetic surgeon should strike a perfect balance between proving ample technical expertise while also helping you feel comfortable and confident about your procedure. Patients should choose a plastic surgeon who is honest and realistic about their potential results and should be wary of any surgeon who promises results that seem too good to be true.