Plastic Surgery: Selecting a Surgeon For Yourself

When a person finds themselves in a position where they need or desire plastic surgery, the options can seem limitless and a little daunting. After all, plastic surgery is a growing field full of new options and technological advancements that can leave your head spinning. While you may know what kind of procedure you need or want, you may not know how to find the doctor best suited for that procedure and your individual needs.
The first thing you will want to consider is the qualifications of the surgeon. Just because someone goes by the title,"Doctor" does not mean they are qualified to perform the surgery you need or want. You should search primarily for a doctor who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Earning these certifications means that your doctor has met stringent standards of care and practice.
Next, you will want to ask for referrals from friends and family that have had similar procedures. The opinion of someone that you trust is a very valuable resource. Also, ask the doctor you are considering for references from former patients.
Another step in selecting a doctor is visiting the office or facility. Many doctors will offer free consultations. This is an excellent time to see whether or not you are comfortable with the doctor or the surgical facility. Feel free to ask questions (make a list if you need to) and ask for a quick tour. It is also important that you consult with or interview more than one surgeon to find the doctor that best suits you and your needs.
The final step in selecting a plastic surgeon is cost. Since each surgeon is independent and can set his or her own fee structure, it is important to ask what the total cost for your procedure will be. You may find that doctors in your area have costs that are comparable, or you may find that one is far less expensive than the other. Most facilities offer some kind of financing. Be sure to check to see if you qualify before you make your decision. Beware of ultra-low prices, however. If one doctor charges substantially less for the same procedure, you may want to do some further investigation to see why the cost is so different. Though sometimes untrue, the old adage "you get what you pay for" is often the case when it comes to plastic surgery.
In summary, seeking out a plastic surgeon is not difficult, but can be time consuming. Allow yourself plenty of time to research and interview various doctors before you make your final decision. If you are having trouble deciding, ask a trusted friend to help you weigh the pros and cons of each facility and doctor. Sometimes having "fresh eyes" on the situation can help alleviate the stress of making such an important decision. Ultimately you should pick the doctor that suits your personality the best, offers the most "bang for your buck" and makes you the most comfortable in his or her care.