How to Tell if a Plastic Surgeon Is Good

Plastic surgery describes any procedure that involves changes to your appearance and/or changes to the way you function. The two basic forms of plastic surgery are reconstructive and cosmetic, or aesthetic. Reconstructive procedures help people with birth defects like cleft palates, accident or burn victims, and women who've lost their breasts to cancer. Cosmetic procedures include breast augmentations, liposuction, rhinoplasty, laser surgery and Botox. Finding a well-qualified plastic surgeon increases your chances of getting good results, so plan to do some research before deciding which one to choose.

Instructions

• 1

  Compile a list of plastic surgeons in your area. Useful resources include the telephone book and plastic surgeons' websites. Compile information about their specialties, background information and before-and-after pictures of their clients. Narrow that list down to the surgeons who have a satisfactory record in the procedure you plan to undertake.

• 2

  Investigate whether or not they have the right credentials to perform plastic surgery. The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) recognizes 24 specialties, including the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). The ABPS provides education, examinations and certification. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) also lists board-certified plastic surgeons. The surgeon you choose should be a member of ABPS or ASPS, or both. Confirm that the surgeon has a license to practice in your state.

• 3

  Check for malpractice suits against plastic surgeons. Local county and circuit courts contain records of medical malpractice claims against physicians in their area. State departments of insurance also have the names of plastic surgeons who have been accused of malpractice.

• 4

  Talk to friends and family members who've had similar procedures. They may provide insights into what to expect before, during and after surgery. Friends and family members tell you if they are satisfied with their results, as well as let you know about the plastic surgeon's bedside manner.

• 5

  Request recommendations from your family doctor. Ask your doctor about plastic surgeons who have a reputation for professionalism and patient satisfaction. Find out how many patients he's referred to this surgeon and whether these patients have commented about the service they received. PlasticSurgery.com says that you should consider asking your doctor if he would recommend this doctor to one of his family members.

• 6

  Make appointments to consult with the plastic surgeons on the list you've narrowed down. Write down a list of your questions before heading to the office. Ask the doctor how long they've practiced, where the surgery would take place (at a clinic or the hospital), what the risks of surgery are, and how long the recovery period is. The way the surgeon answers your questions should help you make your final decision.