What to Look for in a Plastic Surgeon

The absolute most important thing to look for in a plastic surgeon is whether he or she is actually a Board certified plastic surgeon. There is nothing that upsets a board certified plastic surgeon more than other doctors who seek to confuse the public into thinking they are board certified plastic surgeons.

To illustrate: there is no such thing as a Board-certified “cosmetic surgeon.” It is NOT a real certification given by the American Board of Surgeons! Any doctor can call themselves a “Cosmetic Surgeon” – they don’t even have to be a surgeons! This is a scary scenario that is becoming far too common.

Another confusing title is “Facial Plastic Surgeon.” This is someone who has done ENT training (Ear, Nose and Throat), who likely things it sounds more like a plastic surgeon to call himself a facial plastic surgeon. These doctors can be well trained in surgery at the neck and above, but often go far beyond their specialty training by performing liposuction and breast surgery, etc. This goes for obstetricians and gynecologists as well, who perform liposuction and Botox. This is not part of their training. Even more inappropriate are oral surgeons – and even dentists – who are performing Botox and fillers – and sometimes cosmetic surgery. I don’t understand why someone would choose a non-plastic surgeon to do fulfill their plastic surgery needs.

Next, I would recommend that you select someone with at least a few years of experience.

It is also incredibly important to choose a plastic surgeon that you have a good rapport with. This is not something concrete that you can objectify, but rather a feeling. I strive for a natural look and this will appeal to many. However, there will be some patients who like that overdone, way overfilled look that Hollywood is famous for. These select patients will have a better rapport with someone other than me. I am also quite down to earth and enjoy hearing about my patient’s lives. Some doctors are more paternalistic, which will appeal to a different set of patients.

I always give my cell phone to all of my post-operative patients. This will be ideal for most patients, but there will be some patients that may prefer to only go through an answering service.

Lastly, I do all of my own injections for Botox and fillers. If you prefer that the plastic surgeon do your injections, you should find out ahead of time who is actually doing your injections.

If you have any questions, or want to chat about potential procedures, please do not hesitate to call my office at 703-406-2444 to schedule a private, Consultation with me.