Other than the decision to get cosmetic plastic surgery, the most important choice you’ll make is selecting a plastic surgeon to perform the procedure. Some people have the benefit of having a family member or friend make a personal referral. But if you’re starting from scratch, what should you look for when choosing a plastic surgeon?
Above all, take enough time to evaluate your options before making a decision. And, even though virtually every person getting cosmetic surgery has a budget, don’t make cost the primary reason for choosing a surgeon. This is no time for bargain shopping.
Tips for Choosing a Plastic Surgeon
People are frequently told that they need to find a board-certified surgeon, but it is not clear that the doctor needs to be certified in the appropriate specialty. Board certification is typically a way to ensure that a doctor has undergone extensive training, but if that training was for foot surgery, that doctor is probably not the one you want to do your facelift.
It’s important to check that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only board that’s recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
Even for some of the most commonly performed and generally straightforward procedures, such as breast augmentation, it’s important to understand the level of skill and expertise necessary to create natural-looking results.
So, how do you find the best plastic surgeon for you?
As with virtually every other choice people make these days, you can begin by reading reviews posted on reputable, third-party websites to see what actual patients have said about their experiences. And check out the surgeon’s website, where you should find a description of their training, qualifications, and experience performing the specific procedure you’re interested in getting.
While you’re on the website, browse the procedure’s before-and-after photos. This will give you an idea if the surgeon often performs the surgery and you’ll see what he or she considers their best results.
As a surgeon who specializes in body contouring and breast enhancement procedures such as tummy tuck surgery and breast augmentation, I always want potential patients to view my before and after photos. Here’s some Mommy Makeover before-and-after photos:
Another tip for finding a plastic surgeon is to ask your primary care physician or other people in the medical field who practice in the community where you are planning to have the surgery performed. An excellent surgeon’s reputation is typically well-known among peers (as is the reputations of doctors who may not have the expertise you’re looking for.)
The bottom line: There’s no substitute for doing your homework when finding someone who can create the desired results.
Start With a Consultation
The consultation is extremely important when choosing a plastic surgeon. Dr. Bogdan invites people who are considering cosmetic surgery to visit his Dallas-area practice to use the online form to request a consultation, where he can discuss the details of your procedure and answer all of your questions. This is a time when Dr. Bogdan develops an open system of communication with his patients, which helps him understand each person’s specific goals. You can also call our office at (817) 442-1236 to schedule an appointment.