Plastic Surgeon - What's In A Name?

Fame and popularity don't make a great plastic surgeon. Too often people spend a fortune choosing the priciest clinics that are advertised on popular television programs or that are regularly represented in the media. High prices and big names don't equate to qualifications, experience, and skills. Some of the best professionals are working in small practices, securing clients by positive word of mouth rather than through a PR representative.

Many patients want the best regardless of the cost. So it would make sense to secure a consultation with a plastic surgeon that has performed high profile work on celebrities. Who wouldn't want to look like a glamorous movie star? The problem that people don't realize is that celebrities only require a few minor tweaks and enhancements. Most start out as natural beauties. It's not too difficult for a plastic surgeon to add to an already beautiful face or body. While some dramatic changes may be possible for certain individuals, there are many limitations. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations, regardless of who will perform the procedure.

Another reason that well-known surgeons aren't the only talented ones in the field is that marketing plays a large role in the businesses. Unlike traditional medicine, cosmetic is voluntary, which means their services must be marketed in order for them to thrive. What better way to attract more clients than through advertising campaigns, press releases, and media coverage? A high profile plastic surgeon will spend a good chunk of money luring in customers and promoting their practice. While some will have the money and means to put themselves out in the press, there are plenty of small offices that simply don't have the available funds or choose less extensive marketing methods.

Several of the country's most popular doctors are located in major cities such as New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. But these cities have much larger populations than many others throughout the nation. Popularity is simply a numbers contest, and therefore any professional working in high traffic areas will gain more attention simply due to location. While many of these doctors are experts in the cosmetic field, due to high demand their prices are inflated. In comparison, practices in smaller locations may have just as highly skilled professionals, but they will be able to charge more reasonable prices.

So how do you find a great plastic surgeon without having to depend on reality television shows, newspaper ads, or tabloid gossip? The Internet is full of useful websites such as the homepage for the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here you can find lists of nearby offices as well as individual specialties. Another good way to find the right person is by asking your friends and relatives for referrals. You have to be careful not to "out" anyone who is trying to keep his or her cosmetic work secretive. Use all of the resources available, and before long you'll have a long list of possible cosmetic surgeons to choose from.