No matter what type of plastic surgery you’re considering, one of the most important factors in its success is the surgeon you choose.  Although it may seem hard to believe, some of the physicians who are performing cosmetic surgery today have had no formal training at all.

It’s advisable to consider the following points before scheduling a consultation:
Find out if he or she has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).* Surgeons with this certification have completed a minimum of five years of surgical training following medical school, including a plastic surgery residency program.   During this intensive program, surgeons learn to perform surgical procedures for the entire body and face.  At the same time, they develop their technical skill and aesthetic judgment.  After training, a surgeon must pass comprehensive oral and written exams before being granted certification.  The two organizations that have prepared this brochure, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, require their members to be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.*

Ask about the surgeon’s hospital privileges

Even if you are planning to have your surgery in your doctor’s office or at a surgery center, it is important to find out if your surgeon has operating privileges in an accredited hospital for the same procedure you would like to have performed.  Before granting privileges, hospital review committees evaluate a surgeon’s training and competency for specific procedures.

Are you a good candidate?
"Musts" before Surgery can be performed
Being prepared for your breast consultation
How will I learn about the safety of breast implants?
What can I do to prepare for my surgery?
How will I be cared for on the day of my surgery?
How will I look and feel right after surgery?
What should I know about my results?
CHOOSING A QUALIFIED SURGEON

Breast Augmentation Patient Before and After Pictures