Finding the Right Surgeon
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How do you choose the right cosmetic plastic surgeon for you? Do you pick up the phone book, start looking in the yellow pages and begin calling? Surf the Internet looking at all the different websites, or pick up the phone and just ask your friends?
First of all, ask yourself if the procedure you are thinking about is really worth it? Doesn’t matter if it is nose job or breast augmentation, all surgery involving anesthetic includes a risk factor. In order to put you under the knife, they have to stop your normal body processes even it if it just temporary and therein lies the risk. Do not add to this risk by choosing unwisely who is going to perform it. Your first step should be to log into the website for the American Board of Medical Specialties or the Society of Plastic Surgeons. Also investigate the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, to be sure that whoever you choose is Board Certified. In this lucrative profession many plastic surgeons are operating without being adequately trained within this field and yet are still doing business. So stay informed!
Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons should never be confused with Plastic Surgeons. Plastic Surgeons are regulated. Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons are not.
If your plastic surgeon only operates within his own clinic and not at any of the surrounding hospitals in the area, this is a good clue to choose another surgeon. Many “accidents” are successfully concealed in private clinics, but in hospitals with their own quality control measures, there is accountability for any surgeon who is not up to par.
When you finally decide to meet with your plastic surgeon (after you have checked out his credentials) have a list of questions written down to present to him. Make sure that you feel at ease in his presence, and that his manner does not put you off, nor does he brush aside any of your concerns that you voice. If you are not comfortable with him in his office, how are you are going to trust him on the operating table?
Be sure that he is the one who is going to perform the surgery, and that you haven’t been passed on to someone else whose only job is to answer your probing questions. Ask to see the surgeon’s portfolio of cases both before and after.
When it comes to prices, beware of surgeons who offer special rates and deals. Less expensive does not mean the plastic surgeon is necessarily good. You will get what you pay for. Ask him too about his follow-up program of aftercare, talk to him about the procedure, the risks, the pros the cons. Be thorough in your evaluation because you will be trusting him with a special commodity- your life! |
