Things You'll Need:
- Telephone
- computer
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Step 1
Check with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (215)587-9322.
There is only one board of true Plastic Surgeons, and this is The American Board of Plastic Surgery. If your surgeon is not a member of this board, he or she has not passed the rigorous requirements and testing that the board requires for PATIENT SAFETY. If your surgeon says they are board certified, ask "with which board?" There are other boards in existence that are not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties, and may have no requirements for membership. A doctor may say that he is "board certified" but may have simply sent in membership fees to obtain that certificate. The doctor may not even be a Plastic Surgeon at all! Many types of doctors (Obstetricians, Dermatologists, Family Practice doctors, Ear Nose and Throat doctors) may say that they are "cosmetic surgeons". They are not, however, Plastic Surgeons and a patient should investigate this. They may be accessed on the web www.abplsurg.org -
Step 2
Contact the American Society of Plastic Surgeons(847) 228-9900. Only Plastic Surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and have been in practice for a period of time and have demonstrated patient care and safety may be admitted to this society. A doctor who is member of this society is a bone fide Plastic Surgeon with a record of safety.
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Step 3
Talk with friends and family. Even a legitimate Plastic Surgeon who has genuine board certification may not be someone who you might want operating on you. Check with people who you know and trust who have had interaction with the Surgeon
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Step 4
Interview the Surgeon yourself. It is a good idea to consult with at least three before making your decision. You should feel comfortable with the Surgeon, as well as his office. If complications occur you will want to feel comfortable dealing with the people charged with taking care of you.
