When you select a plastic surgeon to perform aesthetic treatment, you are trusting them not only with your cosmetic outcomes but also with your safety and wellbeing. To maximize your chances of achieving a safe and successful result and minimize the risk of a poor outcome, it is crucial to find a surgeon that is experienced and qualified.
But for the average patient, knowing what to look for in a plastic surgeon can be confusing. Here, Charles S. Lee, MD, of Enhance® Medical Center breaks down the most important credentials to look for in a plastic surgeon.
Board Certified in Plastic Surgery
Board certification is an indication that a surgeon has an exceptional understanding of their field. The plastic surgeon you choose should be board certified in the services they offer. The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) to certify doctors in the specialty of plastic surgery.
Being board certified by the ABPS indicates a plastic surgeon has met stringent eligibility requirements. They have completed years of formal education and specialized training, and passed oral and written examinations testing their knowledge of the specialty. Board certified plastic surgeons must demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and renew their certification every 10 years.
Be aware that any physician licensed to practice medicine can legally perform plastic surgery. Some doctors market themselves as “cosmetic surgeons” certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery; however, that board is not recognized by the ABMS.
Fellowship Training
After completing core plastic surgery residency training, some plastic surgeons elect to continue their training with a fellowship training program. Fellowship training is a good sign that a plastic surgeon has gone above and beyond what is required and gained additional expertise in a particular subspecialty. It also suggests the surgeon is up to date on the most innovative techniques and technology.
Membership to Select Professional Societies
Membership to select professional societies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) demonstrates a significant interest in cosmetic plastic surgery and an ongoing dedication to excellence within the specialty. These organizations have stringent membership requirements and surgeons must follow certain rules of conduct and ethics to maintain their involvement.
Although many good plastic surgeons do not belong to ASPS or ASAPS, membership is a good indication that a surgeon performs a lot of aesthetic or cosmetic surgery.
Request a Consultation with Dr. Lee
Dr. Lee is a respected board-certified plastic surgeon serving Beverly Hills and beyond. To schedule a consultation with him and learn more about his experience and qualifications, please call (310) 271-5954 or email Enhance® Medical Center today.
