8 Tips for Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for You

Photo by philippe spitalier on Unsplash 

Finding the right plastic surgeon isn’t as straightforward as conducting a quick online search and opting for the closest doctor who “appears suitable” for the procedure you have in mind. It’s also not about selecting the one with the most entertaining social media presence. Whether your desired change involves a facelift or rhinoplasty, identifying the best plastic surgeon requires considerable research, multiple consultations, and meaningful dialogues.

Your plastic surgery results will stay with you for many years, potentially even for the entirety of your life. Have faith in your chosen surgeon’s ability to achieve visually appealing results and maintain your overall health and safety. This post guides you through tips for choosing your plastic surgeon.

Examine Patient Testimonials and Reviews

Researching and understanding other people’s experiences with a surgeon can offer valuable insights into the doctor’s interaction style with patients. and his surgical proficiency. 

Patient testimonials often encapsulate the entire experience, from making appointments and waiting times at the clinic to the ambiance of the hospital, staff cordiality, and overall patient care. Trusted friends and family members can also provide candid feedback.

Ensure you don’t rush the decision-making process. You must feel entirely at ease with your chosen surgeon and their team. As you shortlist potential surgeons, contact their offices to see if they accept new patients. If they are, arrange a consultation to meet and discuss with the plastic surgeon.

When considering something as significant and transformative as plastic surgery, select a surgeon who can deliver results tailored to your specific desires and objectives. They should also provide the necessary support and care pre-, during, and post-procedure.

Inspect the Facility

The location where your plastic surgeon performs their operations plays a significant role in your plastic surgery journey. It doesn’t matter whether the procedure is carried out in a highly reputable hospital or a modest clinic; it’s of utmost importance that the standards of patient care and safety are top-tier.

It’s advisable to visit the surgical facility and observe the work environment. Look for a place that is well-kept and clean. The staff’s demeanor is also important; they should be welcoming and friendly. Pay attention to how they manage appointment schedules and waiting times. The geographical location of the facility is another aspect to consider, as extensive travel for tests or additional treatments might not be ideal, especially after surgery.

Check Compatibility

Undergoing plastic surgery is a substantial commitment, and it’s crucial to collaborate with a surgeon who puts you at ease. It’s advisable to consult with the best plastic surgeons until you identify one who earns your complete trust. Evaluate how the potential surgeon and their team interact with you. 

Pay attention to whether they give you their undivided attention during consultations or if they appear preoccupied. Note whether they provide clear answers to your queries or if they dismiss your worries.  No matter how renowned or proficient your prospective plastic surgeon may be, if they consistently cause discomfort or anxiety, it’s recommended to consider other alternatives.

Listen to Your Guts 

In an age where access to plastic surgery is relatively straightforward, it becomes even more vital to listen to your gut feelings when choosing a plastic surgeon. Not only should you evaluate their communication methods and the level of connection you have with them, but also be on the lookout for any red flags during consultations.

If they suggest they can entirely change your appearance or promise perfection, treat this as a signal to find another doctor. A reputable plastic surgeon will always offer you a genuine and realistic view without resorting to untrue promises. Be cautious if a plastic surgeon behaves more like a salesperson than a healthcare provider – this is a significant warning sign.

Evaluate Their Education and Expertise

The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) has established an exclusive board responsible for cosmetic surgeons’ education, training, and certification. This board is a trusted source for verifying whether a surgeon possesses the necessary training and experience in cosmetic surgery.

ABCS serves as a certifying body that evaluates a surgeon’s proficiency and experience in cosmetic surgery. Surgeons certified by ABCS have completed a fellowship program lasting oen to two years, focused solely on cosmetic surgery and patient care. These certified surgeons undergo stringent screening to ensure they adhere to the highest patient safety standards, ethical behavior, and exceptional moral integrity.

Besides the surgeon’s academic qualifications and credentials, their practical experience is equally important. The more frequently a plastic surgeon executes a specific procedure, the higher the likelihood of achieving desirable results. Experience equips a plastic surgeon with the ability to prevent or detect surgical complications, if they arise, and hone their aesthetic judgment to produce satisfying outcomes.

Ensure you ask the plastic surgeon about the number of patients they’ve treated with concerns similar to yours. If you require a particular procedure, question how often the doctor has done the same procedure and learn about the complication rates. This includes any complications the surgeon has previously faced and your personal risk of complications.

Investigate Hospital Quality

The hospital in which your surgeon practices is essentially your hospital as well. Hence, look into the caliber of care provided at the hospital where the plastic surgeon sees patients. The quality of the hospital should be important to you because fewer complications and higher survival rates are typically associated with top-tier hospitals. 

Think about the importance of the hospital’s location for you. If hospital visits for tests or treatments become necessary, you’d want the location to facilitate, not hinder, prompt medical care.

Don’t Rush Through the Procedure

While the prospect of plastic surgery can be thrilling, it’s imperative that you pace yourself and not hasten the process. Plastic surgery is far from a quick, one-time procedure; it’s a significant life event that calls for unyielding dedication, steadfast commitment, and absolute patience. 

If you ever feel unease with your potential surgeon, heed your instincts and begin your search anew. Always remember that you’re placing your medical safety in this person’s hands, so it’s paramount to find a surgeon attuned to your aspirations and respects your choices.

Assess Communication Style

Selecting a plastic surgeon with a comfortable rapport and who meets your information needs is crucial. In your initial encounter with the surgeon, make it a point to assess their response to your queries. 

A receptive surgeon will welcome your questions and provide answers in a clear, understandable manner. The right surgeon will also offer personalized treatment options that align with your needs. Access to ‘before and after’ photo books of the surgeon’s previous work should be provided for your evaluation.  Aim to find a plastic surgeon who is genuinely invested in understanding your needs, considers your treatment preferences, and respects your decision-making process.

Endnote

The decision to undergo plastic surgery is significant. We hope the tips above will help make your journey smoother. Give yourself time to research options and consider all variables when selecting the right plastic surgeon for you. Don’t be fooled by unrealistic guarantees or intimidated by price tags.