One of the most important decisions you will make along this journey is finding and vetting the right plastic surgeon. At Ladner Facial Plastic Surgery, we feel strongly about the selection process when choosing a facial plastic surgeon and have a few suggestions to convey as you begin this process. It may seem obvious, but it is essential that your surgeon is properly trained in all facial plastic and reconstructive procedures. While many specialties advertise themselves as “Cosmetic Surgeons,” only two plastic surgery boards are recognized by the American Medical Association: the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS). In order to be board certified by the ABFPRS, a candidate must first be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. Therefore, before committing to any procedure, we highly recommend you verify that your surgeon has completed a facial plastic fellowship and is board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS).
Once you have confirmed your surgeon’s board certification, it is also helpful to know which, if any, hospitals have granted him or her admitting/operative privileges. Obtaining hospital privileges ensures a basic level of scrutiny and standardized performance which is imperative.
Please note: If a surgeon does not have privileges at a local hospital, we highly recommend that you do not use them.
Once your consultation is complete, you should feel as though you’ve established a relationship with your facial plastic surgeon, and that you trust that the communication process is open and collaborative. If he/she is unable to clearly articulate the treatment procedure and what you can expect before, during and after the procedure, your overall experience and end result may be disappointing.
Still not entirely sure how to find the ideal surgeon for your needs? Contact our office with any questions that you have.
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