Plastic Surgery: Choosing the Right Surgeon

If you’ve made the decision to move forward with your plastic surgery procedure, the first step is finding a physician who can help you obtain the results you have in mind. Heading into the first surgeon you come across can easily result in unexpected complications and ultimately, an unsatisfactory outcome. In order to avoid such situations, it’s imperative that you take the time to research and compare your available options with hopes of achieving the look you’ve been searching for. In this article, we will provide a few tips and tricks to help you through the process.

Step 1 – If you know of someone who has undergone a cosmetic procedure (and these days, it’s likely you do), speak with them to find out details pertaining to their experience. Are they satisfied or unhappy with the outcome? Obtain information surrounding the specific surgeon they had perform the operation and the measures taken to make their dreams a reality. Was the physician personable? Did they appear to have a vested interest in the results? What organizations are they a part of? Are they certified by any specific organization?

Step 2 – Whether you have one or multiple recommendations, the next step is to research the candidates on your own. There are many various sites online which provide prospective patients with ratings and reviews of local physicians in order to help them obtain the best possible care. Utilize these resources and check up on the physicians whom you have been made aware of. In addition, you may also find new and interesting candidates whom you were not exposed to previously.

Step 3 – Check in with your local state board to obtain background information on the candidates whom you find satisfactory. This resource can prove a valuable ally in ensuring you choose a physician whose credentials live up to their reputation.

Step 4 – Call up your general physician to inquire as to whether they have any additional recommendations to throw your way. Most professionals in the medical field will have a firm grasp of other professionals who excel in areas in which they are unfamiliar. Ask your physician who they would trust with their immediate family.

Step 5 – Once you’ve gathered a solid list of candidates, call your top three choices and schedule consultations with each. This initial meeting is a perfect way to gain a first hand perspective into what a patient is to expect during and throughout their procedure. Ask for references for past patients and take notes to help you compare your options down the road.

Step 6 – After you’ve met with each surgeon, you will likely have a pretty good idea of the option that best suits your individual goals and desires. Prior to making a final decision, sit yourself down with the information you have collected, comparing each candidate to the next. Avoid making your final decision based on cost alone, as you’ll likely pay down the road with the unsatisfactory results you obtain. Choose the surgeon who makes you feel comfortable in their abilities and whom you feel with provide you with the results you’ve been dreaming of.