How to Choose the Best Plastic Surgeon for You
June 3, 2020
The best plastic surgeon for any person depends on many factors, but the following are some of the basics. First and foremost, the surgeon should be “Board-Certified” by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Some physicians just say “Board-Certified,” but it is critical to look at the specific Board Certification, as there are many “Boards.” The American Board of Plastic Surgery is not the same as the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Dermatology, etc.—so you must look for the appropriate one. Certification through ABPS shows that a doctor has had extensive plastic surgeon training and has passed the intensive testing to be certified. In addition, look for membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). In the United States, ASPS and ASAPS memberships are the highest education honors, displaying specialty in cosmetic and plastic surgery.
5 TIPS FOR SELECTING THE BEST PLASTIC SURGEON
In selecting a plastic surgeon, these are some important factors to evaluate:
- Plastic surgery training and certification
- Good standing with the State Medical Board
- Excellent reviews online by happy patients for the surgery of interest
- A solid consultation in which you feel comfortable with the doctor’s knowledge and thoroughness, as well as the kindness of the staff
- Documentation of the doctor’s work by many before-and-after photos
Dr. Miguel Delgado places specific emphasis on the before-and-after photos. This is the best index in the quality of the plastic surgeon’s work. Cosmetic and plastic surgeons are artists, and every artist has a different eye for aesthetics. The photos will give you a good indication if you are aligned with their artistry. In addition, there should be many before-and-after photos—not just a few.
Experience is also important. How long has the surgeon been practicing plastic surgery, and does he or she specialize in a specific area of plastic surgery? Plastic surgeons are trained in many areas, such as burns, hand surgery, facial reconstruction, pediatric plastic surgery, etc. If you are having a facelift, you want a surgeon who is a specialist in cosmetic surgery. In addition, they should be a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
BOTTOM LINE—you must be confident in your plastic surgeon, their skills, certifications, reviews, before-and-after photos, and the staff. If you have made all of these check marks, you are far more likely to have a great experience.
