10 Must-Know Tips: How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon
So, you’re wondering how to choose a plastic surgeon?
First off, good for you! Deciding to enhance or refine something about yourself is a big deal, and it’s okay to want to look and feel your best.
But here’s the thing: choosing the right plastic surgeon is absolutely crucial. I’ve been down this road a few times.
As someone who tends to overthink everything (seriously, I can spend hours researching the best type of toothpaste), I didn’t take this decision lightly.
You want a qualified plastic surgeon who has the skills, understands your goals, and truly cares about your goals. With so many plastic surgeons on Instagram showcasing impressive transformations, it’s more important than ever to thoroughly vet your surgeon before making a decision.
Here are 10 tips on how to choose a plastic surgeon:
Tip 1: Verify the Surgeon’s Expertise in the Procedure You’re Considering
Not all surgeons specialize in the same procedures in plastic surgery. Look for a surgeon with a specialty and a proven track record in the specific procedure you’re considering.
For example, just like you wouldn’t go to a cardiologist for a broken arm, you shouldn’t choose a plastic surgeon who doesn’t specialize in the procedure you’re considering.
There are many plastic or cosmetic surgeons who do it all—lipo, tummy tucks, nose jobs, facelifts, etc. While impressive, this may mean they are jacks of all trades and masters of none.
In my experience, choosing a surgeon who specializes in the specific procedure I’m considering leads to the best results.
Take rhinoplasty, for example. When I had mine done in 2014, there were plenty of surgeons who performed the procedure, but they also regularly performed body surgeries. They were good at rhinoplasty but maybe not great because it just wasn’t something they did all day long.
I ended up going with a surgeon who specialized exclusively in facial plastic surgery. This meant their entire focus, day in and day out, was on facial procedures.
The more experience a surgeon has in a specific area, the better your chances of getting the results you want.
Tip 2: Check Reviews (But Stay Skeptical)
It’s easy to be swayed by the “instafamous” doctors flaunting their work on social media – be cautious here.
I love Instagram for initial research and inspiration but remember that these transformations often highlight the best results. You’ll have to dive deeper.
My favorite places to research surgeons and read patient reviews are Reddit and RealSelf.
On Reddit, you can find tons of firsthand experiences from real people discussing their surgeries and outcomes. Subreddits dedicated to cosmetic surgery often provide honest, unfiltered reviews and answers to your questions.
Check out: reddit.com/plasticsurgery. I find that previous patients are very willing to share their honest experience.
RealSelf is another great resource, where you can find detailed patient testimonials and photos of patients who’ve undergone various procedures. You can read reviews, check out before-and-after photos, and even ask questions directly to the community or to verified surgeons.
I also find it helpful to check if the doctor has used RealSelf to answer community questions. It gives you a glimpse into their style and approach to common concerns.
Just a heads-up, though: doctors can and sometimes do remove negative reviews on RealSelf.
I had a close call with this while looking into my lip lift. I was looking into a surgeon who had hundreds of glowing reviews. But then, a negative review popped up, saying the doctor had offered a refund in exchange for removing the negative review. A few weeks later, that review disappeared.
It made me realize you should take reviews with a grain of salt and consider the bigger picture.
My secret? If you’re getting aesthetic treatments like Botox or fillers, consult with your aesthetic provider. They often know the best surgeons in the area!
That’s how I found the last few surgeons I worked with. The same names kept coming up whenever I asked for recommendations during my appointments. These surgeons didn’t have a massive Instagram following, but their work was great.
Related: My Lip Lift + Veneers: Before and After Transformation
Tip 3: Make Sure the Cosmetic Surgeon is Board Certified
Medical boards are key to keeping healthcare standards high. They make sure doctors and surgeons meet tough educational and professional requirements before they can start practicing.
At first, I just assumed that any doctor performing plastic surgery would naturally be “board certified”. After-all, how could someone have their own practice, perform hundreds of surgeries, and not be board certified?
But the reality is, not all surgeons are as certified as you might expect. ALWAYS Make sure your surgeon has board certification.
Here’s where it gets tricky: In the United States, there’s a big difference between being certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS).
- ABPS certification means the surgeon has extensive training in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, with years of specialized surgical training. This certification is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and is considered a gold standard in the field. If you’re looking for the best plastic surgeon, ABPS certification is a key indicator of top-notch credentials.
- ABCS certification, on the other hand, focuses specifically on cosmetic procedures. However, the training required for this certification may not be as comprehensive, and it is not recognized by the ABMS.
- ABFPRS certification is particularly important if you’re considering facial plastic surgery. Surgeons with this certification have specialized training in facial procedures, often coming from an otolaryngology (ENT) or plastic surgery background. While ABFPRS is not recognized by the ABMS, it’s highly respected in facial plastic surgery, indicating a surgeon’s deep expertise in facial, head, and neck surgeries.
You can check a doctor’s ABPS certification here: American Board of Plastic Surgery and the ABFPRS certification here: American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
What about surgeons outside the States? I can’t speak from personal experience, but personally, it’s not worth the risk for me.
As someone who tends to be naturally anxious, I prefer to stick with surgeons who are board certified in the U.S., where I can verify their credentials and track record.
If you’re considering going abroad, make sure to do extensive research, check their certifications, and understand the healthcare regulations in that country. Your safety and peace of mind should always come first.
Tip 4: Look for Involvement in Clinical Trials or Research & Professional Organizations
Surgeons involved in clinical trials or research are often the pioneers in their fields, using the latest techniques and advancements. This shows that they’re dedicated to staying ahead and pushing the boundaries in their field.
Also, check if they’re active in professional organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or any groups specific to your procedure. If they are, it usually means they’re up-to-date with the latest trends and standards.
Tip 5: Check for Lawsuits
I nearly chose a different dentist before finding the one who did my veneers in 2022. His reviews were great, and the before-and-after photos on social media were impressive.
But before booking a consultation, I decided to search for the dentist’s name along with the word “lawsuit” on Google. To my surprise, I found out he had been charged a few years earlier for illegally dispensing opioids.
That discovery made me cross him off the list—unethical behavior is a major turn-off!
Moral of the story, it’s important to be aware of any legal issues surrounding a surgeon. One lawsuit doesn’t disqualify a surgeon, but multiple or serious claims might be a red flag.
Look up if the surgeon has faced any malpractice suits or disciplinary actions. This can help you assess their track record and ensure you’re choosing someone with a solid reputation for patient safety and satisfaction.
Tip 6: Schedule Multiple Consults & Trust Your Instincts
Honestly, this part can be a bit of a hassle. It takes time and effort to narrow your choices and schedule in-person consults, but it’s important to help you make the right decision.
Meeting with multiple experienced surgeons allows you to compare their expertise, approach, and bedside manner. It lets you check their office, meet the staff, and see if you feel comfortable.
I like to schedule three in-person consults before choosing.
Just keep in mind that these consultations can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, though some surgeons offer complimentary consults. Usually, if you decide to go ahead with the surgery, the cost of the consult is applied toward the overall procedure.
Before your consultation, prepare a list of questions to ensure you cover all your concerns and get a clear picture of what to expect. This is your opportunity to make your “final pick” so ensure it’s a thorough consultation.
Trusting your instincts is key when choosing a surgeon. If something feels off—whether it’s how a consultation is handled or how you’re treated by the staff—listen to that gut feeling. Your comfort and confidence in your surgeon are just as important as their qualifications.
When evaluating your consult and how you feel, ask yourself:
- Did the surgeon really listen to what you wanted and answer your concerns?
- Did they clearly explain the procedure, including any risks and what to expect?
- Did you feel rushed, or did they take the time to answer all your questions?
- How did you feel about their communication style and overall attitude?
- Was the office clean and welcoming, and did the staff seem friendly and professional?
- Did the surgeon give you clear answers about their experience and past results?
- How confident did you feel about their approach and how it matches your aesthetic goals?
These questions help you figure out if the surgeon you’re considering is the right fit for you.
Tip 7: Understand Their Surgical Philosophy
Every surgeon takes a unique approach to surgery, so it’s important to discuss their philosophy and techniques. For example, some surgeons are about minimally invasive methods and quick recoveries, while others prefer more comprehensive procedures. Knowing their approach can help you find a surgeon whose style matches what you’re looking for.
Some surgeons also specialize in different surgical techniques and knowing the surgeon’s philosophy and approach is important so you’re not surprised.
Here’s an example: When I was consulting for a tummy tuck, I was surprised to find that each surgeon had a different approach to scar placement.
If you don’t have quite enough skin, one option involves a vertical scar that extends from the usual scar up toward the belly button. The other option avoids the vertical scar but places the regular scar higher on the abdomen.
You’ll often find people on Reddit discussing how they were shocked to wake up with either a high scar or a vertical one that their surgeon hadn’t mentioned. Discuss these things and research beforehand so you’re prepared with questions. Knowing these details and understanding how each surgeon handles them can significantly impact the results you get.
Tip 8: Check for Hospital Privileges
When picking a plastic surgeon, check if they have hospital privileges.
This just means the hospital has reviewed and approved them to treat patients there, which is a good indicator they meet high standards for quality and safety. Plus, it means they can use the hospital’s resources, which can be super helpful for comprehensive care.
Even if your procedure is in-office or in a surgical center, it’s still a good idea to check that your surgeon has hospital privileges just in case there are complications.
Tip 9: Evaluate Their Post-Operative Support
Ask about the post-operative support and follow-up care the surgeon provides. Surgeons who offer detailed care plans and are easy to reach for follow-up visits can make a big difference in your recovery.
If traveling, ensure follow-up appointments fit your schedule too.
Tip 10: Have Realistic Expectations
When you’re evaluating potential surgeons, remember that no surgery is ever going to be absolutely perfect.
Remember that every procedure varies, recovery can be lengthy, and results differ.
Focus on satisfaction and realistic outcomes, not perfection. This mindset helps you appreciate the journey and make an informed choice.
I also mention this as a reminder for after your procedure.
Inevitably, there might be aspects that aren’t exactly as you envisioned or minor imperfections that arise. It’s part of the process, and what matters most is how you feel overall and the progress you make.
Embrace the results as a step toward your goal rather than seeing them as the final measure of success.
Putting It All Together: Finding the Best Surgeon for You
Choosing a good surgeon can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth putting in the effort to find the perfect fit for you.
Trust yourself through this process, and you’ll find someone who matches your goals. Good luck on your journey—I’m sure you’ll find the perfect doctor for achieving the look you want!
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