How to Choose Your Plastic Surgeon

When most patients shop for a plastic surgeon they tend to focus a lot on comparing the before and after photos. While skill is a very important factor to consider, it shouldn’t be the only thing you look for in a plastic surgeon. To help guide you in the process, here is a checklist of questions you should seek to answer before moving forward with a surgeon:

      ü  Are they a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon? Some people are surprised to learn that not all plastic surgeons are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Because being board certified is not required for a physician to perform cosmetic surgery, not all surgeons seek a board certification. However, just because it isn’t required doesn’t mean it isn’t highly recommended and preferable. Being board certified means, that particular surgeon has met certain requirements and standards regarding training, experience, and ethics. So, if a surgeon is not board certified it begs the question, “why not?” It is for this reason that the first question you should always ask when considering a surgeon is, “Are they board certified?”

      ü  Are they skilled? This one, as previously stated, is very important. Looking at before and after pictures of other patients is one way to see a sample of the plastic surgeons skills, but you should try to look further. Ask around town and read reviews to make sure the surgeon has a good reputation. You are also encouraged to inquire about your surgeon’s educational history and accolades.

      ü  Is the price right? Prices that are too good to be true should be a red flag. We have all heard the old adage, “You get what you pay for,” this is all too true in plastic surgery. When it comes to cheap plastic surgery you have to question what corners are being cut to drive that price down. Prices should be fair and reasonable.

      ü  How do you feel about the rest of the staff? If the surgeon has already met all of the above to win your approval, you should then consider how you fell about the staff. You will spend a lot of time interacting with your surgeon’s staff, so make sure that they are friendly, accommodating, and make you feel comfortable.

We would love the opportunity to help you answer your plastic surgery questions! To schedule your consultation with Dr. Rude, or to learn more about the practice, call our office at 979-776-8825.