So what does all of this mean for you - the consumer? You have to be able to separate the doctors who were properly trained to perform cosmetic surgery procedures from the rest. How? Check on their board certification.
The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only board that ensures their members have completed residencies in plastic and cosmetic surgery and passed both oral and written exams administered by them.
Q: My girlfriend chose a physician who was recognized by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery - That's good enough isn't it? Well... The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery does not require a physician to be trained in plastic surgery - their members include dermatologists, general surgeons and otolaryngologists (ENT surgeons), among others. Their current board of directors doesn't include a single plastic surgeon. The American Board of Plastic Surgery recognizes plastic surgeons only. That's all I'm saying.
Have I thoroughly confused you? Well, here's a list of easy steps to make sure you find a cosmetic plastic surgeon:
- Find out what boards credential the physician.
- You should be able to research this online - this is the best way. If you can't, you can call the office and ask.
- When you visit the office, confirm your information.
- There should be certificates framed and clearly displayed in the waiting room. If not, then they're in one of the examination rooms - which doesn't help you.
- Ask the secretary about his credentials. Don't feel like you're a prude. This doctor may be performing surgery on you, get the info.
- Beware: sometimes secretaries don't know the difference between "plastic surgery" and "cosmetic surgery," and if you ask them if the doctor is certified by the "American Board of Plastic Surgery," they'll say yes, even though he is only certified by the "American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery."
- This is the easy part: does at least one of the boards contain the words "plastic surgery?" If not, then it's safe to assume your physician wasn't trained as a plastic surgeon.
Next: "I'm going with a doc recognized by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. What else is important?"
