Informed Choices: Your Guide to Safe and Effective Cosmetic Surgery

When it comes to cosmetic surgery, safety should always be our top priority.

A recent Los Angeles Times article shed light on the “Wild West” nature of the aesthetic medicine industry, where some physicians venture into the field without proper surgical training. And as expected, this has led to tragic outcomes for unsuspecting patients.

If you’re considering face surgery, body contouring, or other cosmetic surgeries, it’s crucial to be extra cautious and do your homework before going under the knife. 

That’s where board-certified plastic surgeons come in — they have the skills and experience to keep you safe and get you the results you want. 

In this article, we’ll explore how to make smart, informed choices that prioritize our well-being.

The Risks of Unqualified Cosmetic Surgeons

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), more and more doctors are offering cosmetic procedures that they’re just not trained for. 

As stated in their press release, “Many physicians offer cosmetic procedures outside the scope of their education and training. This can lead to complications and, in some cases, patient mortalities.”

That’s a serious red flag.

Add to that the gut-wrenching story published in the LA Times, wherein a 28-year-old woman went in for liposuction, but the doctor performing the procedure was actually a pediatrician. The doctor had been doing liposuction for seven years without proper surgical training. 

Of course, the woman died as a result. It’s a stark reminder of what can happen when cosmetic procedures are left in the wrong hands.

The ASPS wants to make one thing crystal clear: cosmetic surgery is still surgery, and all surgeries come with risks. 

But while all surgical procedures carry some level of risk, you can dramatically lower those risks by picking a qualified plastic surgeon. When you let someone without the right training and expertise operate on you, the consequences can be severe, even fatal.

The Importance of Board Certification

When you’re looking for a cosmetic surgeon, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the different boards and certifications out there. 

Take it from the ASPS: “Patients can be confused by many official sounding boards and certifications, but ASPS advises patients to always choose a surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).” 

But what makes the ABPS certification the gold standard? To become ABPS-certified, a surgeon has to accomplish the following:

• They must complete at least six years of surgical training, with a minimum of three years focused specifically on plastic surgery.
• They have to pass rigorous oral and written exams that test their knowledge and skills.
• They need to graduate from an accredited medical school.
• Every year, they’re required to complete continuing medical education, including courses on patient safety.

In short, the ABPS certification is a mark of a surgeon’s dedication, expertise, and commitment to their craft.

When you choose an ABPS-certified surgeon, you’re not just getting someone with impressive credentials. You’re getting a surgeon who puts patient safety, ethical care, and excellent outcomes at the top of their priority list. 

So, when you’re ready to get your chosen procedure done, make sure your surgeon is ABPS-certified. It could make all the difference in your results and your peace of mind.

Empower Yourself with Education

When it comes to cosmetic surgery, the more you know, the better off you’ll be. 

It’s crucial to educate yourself and make informed decisions about any procedure you’re considering. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and do your research — your safety and satisfaction depend on it.

Your Plastic Surgery Checklist

Before you book that consultation, make sure you have these key questions from the ASPS ready for your potential surgeon:

• Are you certified by the ABPS?
• Did you specifically train in plastic surgery?
• How many years of plastic surgery training have you completed?
• Are you a member of the ASPS?
• Is your office-based surgical facility accredited by a nationally or state-recognized agency, or is it state-licensed or Medicare-certified?
• Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure, and if so, at which hospital?

Be sure to look for surgeons with hospital privileges. This means they’ve undergone an additional layer of vetting to ensure they’re qualified to perform your procedure.

Remember, the more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to find a qualified, skilled plastic surgeon who puts your safety and satisfaction first.

3 Tips on Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

Aside from ticking the checklist, here are some more tips to help you vet the right plastic surgeon for your needs.

Review their before-and-after photos.

A skilled plastic surgeon should have a portfolio of before-and-after photos showcasing their work. 

Look for patients with similar body types and cosmetic concerns to yours. Pay attention to the consistency and quality of the results. Do the outcomes look natural and aesthetically pleasing? 

This can give you a good idea of what to expect from your own procedure.

Evaluate their communication style.

Choose a plastic surgeon who communicates clearly and effectively. They should be able to explain the procedure, its risks, and its benefits in terms you can understand. 

A good surgeon will also be honest about what results you can realistically expect and won’t make any guarantees. 

Clear, open communication is key to a positive patient-surgeon relationship.

Trust your instincts

During your consultation, pay attention to how the surgeon makes you feel. 

Do they listen to your concerns and answer your questions thoroughly? Do they seem genuinely invested in your safety and well-being? 

A qualified surgeon will prioritize your comfort, safety, and satisfaction above all else. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and keep looking.

Choosing a plastic surgeon is a personal decision that requires careful consideration. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. 

Conclusion

As we’ve explored throughout this article, patient safety should always be the top priority when considering cosmetic surgery. 

The ASPS puts it best: “Patient safety, ethical care and excellent outcomes are the Society’s top priorities. ASPS Member Surgeons believe plastic surgery should only be provided by surgeons who are well-trained in the procedures they offer and understand how to recognize and appropriately treat any complications.”

At The Aesthetic Centers, we’re here to help you navigate the world of cosmetic surgery with confidence. Schedule a consultation with our experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons. 

Our resources and consultations are designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to make the best choices for your body and your goals.