Finding the right plastic surgeon for you is a major life decision, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one if you know what to look for. The idea of searching for the perfect plastic surgery can sound overwhelming, and you want to make sure you find a surgeon who, above all, puts your needs and goals first. Here are five ways you know you’ve made the right choice and picked the best plastic surgeon for your needs.
IS THE DOCTOR A BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON?
Although the terms “plastic surgeon” and “cosmetic surgeon” are often used interchangeably, there is a significant distinction. When looking for a plastic surgeon in the Austin and San Antonio areas, our plastic surgeons believe it’s important that patients understand what distinguishes board-eligible or board-certified plastic surgeons from cosmetic surgeons. By understanding this distinction, clients can choose wisely, ensuring that they will receive quality care and satisfying outcomes. The first and most important thing to establish is whether or not the plastic surgeon has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which is the only board the American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes to certify doctors in the full range of plastic and reconstructive procedures. This certification requires at least five years of approved surgical training, which includes a plastic surgery residency. In addition, a physician must also pass comprehensive written and oral exams in plastic surgery. This certification ensures extensive and continued knowledge and training in plastic surgery and, most importantly, your safety!
You can also visit the American Board of Plastic Surgery website, here you can look up your surgeon to confirm they are certified.
EXAMINE THE DOCTOR’S EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Obviously, a professional plastic surgeon needs to have received a doctorate from a well-esteemed university. Examine the doctor’s credentials: where were they educated, and how many years have they been in practice? Did they complete a residency at a hospital? An expert surgeon should also have current hospital privileges at one or more hospitals, and this should be something that can be easily verified.
Confirm your surgeon’s experience and education by asking these questions and requesting their CV. You can click here to meet our surgeons and find their CVs on our website!
DOES THE DOCTOR HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THE PROCEDURE ITSELF?
Experience matters when it comes to choosing a plastic surgeon, and it is important to also consider if it is the right kind of experience. You want someone who is an expert at performing the procedure you are considering, and someone who has done that procedure time and time again to excellent results. One thing you can do is to examine the doctor’s gallery of before and after photos to see if you are satisfied with the results. Also, look for testimonials specifically related to what you are looking at having done, as well as the surgeon’s CV.
DOES THE DOCTOR GET THE KIND OF RESULTS YOU’RE LOOKING FOR?
Aesthetics can be a subjective matter, but an important one: Look at the results the doctor has achieved with other patients, and ask yourself if those results match your personal aesthetic goals. Try to find examples of patients with similar concerns and procedures to those you are considering.
MEET WITH THE DOCTOR IN PERSON FOR A CONSULTATION
Don’t make a final decision on a doctor without meeting with them in person for a consultation. The surgeon should be able to explain the procedure in simple terms so that you understand everything it involves. This is your opportunity to get all of your questions answered and establish a rapport with your surgeon. Most importantly, if you walk away feeling confused or concerned – that doctor is not the right one for you. You should never feel pressured into proceeding. The plastic surgeon should be courteous and professional and should be able to address any concerns you have so that you are confident you have made the right choice.
At Synergy Plastic Surgeon, our board-certified or board-eligible plastic surgeons offer complimentary consultations to ensure that all patients fully understand the procedure of interest. We answer all questions, ensure that your cosmetic goals are met, and strive to ensure that you have your perfect Synergy Experience.
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