Choosing the Right Cosmetic Surgeon

Choosing the right cosmetic surgeon can be difficult, but these guidelines can help you find the right doctor for your needs. Remember, cosmetic surgery is a highly competitive and lucrative field; therefore, turf battles are inevitable. You do not want to become confused by groups claiming to be "the only" or "the best," since this excludes many surgeons who may be a better choice for your particular problem.

Finding a Cosmetic Surgeon

First, choose two or three surgeons whose specialties match your needs. The surgeons should be board-certified by one of these professional organizations:

• The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons
• The American Academy of Dermatology

There may be qualified surgeons in other professional organizations, but these are the primary boards that certify doctors to perform cosmetic surgery.

Personal recommendations are important. Ask friends for referrals if they have undergone a similar procedure. Get opinions from your family doctor and other doctor acquaintances. Surgical technicians and operating room nurses are an excellent source for information regarding a surgeon's skill in the operating room.

Interview the surgeons. Ask about their fellowship training -- specialized training they have received in specific procedures. Check with your state's medical board to verify the surgeon's board certification, education, and license -- and check whether disciplinary action has been taken against the surgeon.

Make sure that the surgeon you choose has hospital privileges to perform your specific procedure. If the surgeon is not respected enough to have hospital privileges, you don't want that surgeon performing your surgery in an outpatient facility or in an office.

Questions to Consider Before Selecting Your Cosmetic Surgeon

At this point, you may have narrowed your choices to one or two surgeons. It is now time for the consultation. Here are key questions to consider:

• What is the surgeon's area of expertise?
• Has the surgeon practiced for many years or performed many of these procedures?
• Is the surgeon friendly yet confident and professional?
• If the procedure will not be performed in the physician's office, does the surgeon use a certified surgical facility with board-certified anesthesiologists and up-to-date emergency equipment and anesthesia monitoring devices?
• What is the total price of the surgery? (This includes the surgeon's fee, operating room, anesthesia, etc.)
• Are you allowed to see before and after pictures of other patients? Are computer images available for you and the surgeon to view together?
• Does the surgeon encourage you to ask questions?
• Are the surgeon's answers to your questions realistic?

After you've settled on a doctor and a procedure, you may want to get a second opinion. This will help you feel confident in your final decision.

You should exclude any surgeon who:

• Does not routinely perform the procedure you are considering
• Dismisses the risks of surgery or is not open to a discussion of complications
• Guarantees results
• Will not or cannot show before and after photos of other patients
• Does not allow you to ask questions freely
• Is not courteous and respectful
• Offers bargain fees or gimmicks
• Is not routinely involved in postoperative care

Keep in mind, excellent credentials and a good rapport with your surgeon do not guarantee a favorable outcome. However, they are the foundation of a successful partnership between surgeon and patient.