What to Look for In a Plastic Surgeon
The success of your plastic surgery hinges on the surgeon you choose to work with. Not all surgeons are equally qualified and there are several factors to take into consideration when selecting the right one for you. In this blog post, New York plastic surgeon Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha shares his recommendations on what to look for in a surgeon.
Education, Training and Certification
A qualified plastic surgeon should have a medical degree from an accredited medical school and have completed a plastic surgery residency program. Additional fellowship training is a plus.
Board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery is also important. The ABPS is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to govern plastic surgeons. In addition to graduating from an accredited medical school, board certified plastic surgeons have also completed years of surgical training and are required to continue their education throughout their career in order to stay up to date with the latest advances in plastic surgery.
When searching for a plastic surgeon, it is a good idea to choose one who is a member of professional organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Both of these prestigious organizations require members to be board certified by the ABPS, be in good standing with the board, have passed rigorous training and examinations, adhere to a strict code of ethics and complete continuing medical education, including patient safety, throughout their career.
Experience
Your plastic surgeon should have years of experience and should also have experience performing the specific treatment or procedure you seek. This ensures your surgeon has spent time refining their techniques and knows how to handle complications, should they arise. Your surgeon should have before and after photos of patients available on their website or upon request. Browsing through past patient photos allows you to get a good idea of what type of results to expect.
Reputation
What do other patients have to say about your plastic surgeon? Reading patient testimonials can give you a good idea of your surgeon’s communication style and patient rapport. Choose a surgeon who is known for being compassionate and approachable, because establishing good communication is essential. Having plastic surgery is a very personal choice and it is critical that you work with a surgeon you can communicate with openly and comfortably. Don’t be afraid to ask to read patient testimonials and reviews. The beauty and success of your plastic surgery depend on it!
If you are interested in pursuing plastic surgery, schedule a one-on-one consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kayastha. To schedule your appointment please call (518) 346-3125.
