How to Locate the Best Plastic Surgeons

People choose to obtain the services of a plastic surgeon for several reasons. Some people have deformities from past trauma or unsightly scars from past operations. Others seek to cosmetically improve specific body features. Regardless of the reason for seeking a plastic surgeon, it is important to locate a well-qualified surgeon you feel comfortable with. Finding a great plastic surgeon is usually easier in large cities where there are more plastic surgeons to choose from.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Phone Book
• Newspaper
• Phone

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Instructions

• 1

  Define the type of plastic surgery you need or want. According to the book "Surgery" by Josef Fischer, surgeons are now becoming increasingly specialized. Some plastic surgeons only work on the face, while others work on other parts of the body. The best plastic surgeon for you will depend on the surgery you need.

• 2

  Compile a list of local plastic surgeons. Surgeons can be found in local phone books, newspaper listings and Internet web sites. These listings will sometimes specify a plastic surgeon's specialty. A particularly good resource is the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website. For a surgeon to become a member of the society, he must meet several strict qualifications. They must be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have at least six years of surgical experience and operate in accredited surgical facilities.

• 3

  Inquire about the surgeon's qualifications. Information about her education and experience can be found on websites that provide physician listings. You can also obtain this information by calling the offices of physicians on your list. Ask about the surgeon's medical school, residency and fellowship training. According to Jean Loftus' book "The Smart Woman's Guide to Plastic Surgery," a well-qualified plastic surgeon will have completed either a plastic surgery residency or a dedicated plastic surgery fellowship.

• 4

  Check Internet forums. Most big cities have local Internet blogs and discussion forums where patients discuss experiences with plastic surgeons. Use this information to discover complaints or praise former patients may have for specific surgeons. The information may also provide details about the particular surgeon's specialty, as many surgeons have extensive experience in one type of procedure but not another.

• 5

  Discuss options with friends and acquaintances. Plastic surgery has become very common and people you know may have undergone procedures. Talk to friends to gain insight about their experience with particular surgeons.

• 6

  Inquire about the surgeon's availability. The best plastic surgeons fill their schedules months in advance, so if a surgeon can see you the next day there may be a reason why their schedule is light. However, a plastic surgeon who is too busy may not be receptive to all of her patients' needs. According to Loftus, up to two months is a reasonable amount of time to wait for an appointment with a plastic surgeon.