What is Your Surgeon’s Training?
Making the decision to get plastic surgery to enhance your appearance is only the first step in a careful evaluation process. Before committing to a life-changing procedure learn more about what makes you a good candidate and why choosing a Board certified physician is imperative. Dr. de Ramón recommends seeking a surgeon specifically certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a Member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) or a Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeon (ASPS). If a surgeon is an ASPS or ASAPS member, they have met many rigorous credentialing criteria and you can be sure that you are getting the most highly trained surgeon.
Evaluating Your Physician
For the best and safest results, learn as much as you can about your prospective physician. Not only should your physician have the appropriate state licenses, he or he should also have several years of experience performing the type of surgery you are seeking. If your procedure is performed in your doctor’s office instead of in the hospital, does the surgeon have hospital privileges for this procedure? Will anesthesia be administered by qualified personnel? Are appropriate sterile procedures being followed for you safety?
Asking Questions
Be a careful consumer and ask the appropriate questions. Your physician should be more than willing to have information on recovery times, expected results and success rates. Ask to speak with a former patient. You can make an inquiry to your state licensing board regarding any complaints against your physician. Most importantly, ask which board has certified the physician and be sure they have had proper training in plastic surgery. “Board Certified” alone doesn’t tell the whole story. It is legal for other specialists to offer plastic surgical procedures, laser, and injections such as Botox. But it make more sense to get these interventions from the most qualified surgeons possible with years of training, not someone who has taken a few weekend courses. Listen to your instincts. If it sounds too good to be true, it may be! Again, look for an ASPS member.
