If you’re thinking about having cosmetic surgery, there are a number of important things you need to consider before you start scheduling consultations with doctors in your area.
1. The Basics: What is cosmetic surgery?
Did you know that cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery are two unique specialties? From the scope of procedures performed, to training requirements, to the overall goals for patient outcomes, cosmetic surgery is a distinct discipline that calls for a specialized approach. Before you go any further, study up on how cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery are different.
2. Choosing Your Cosmetic Surgeon
The most important step in your cosmetic surgery process is finding a qualified cosmetic surgeon whom you can trust to provide exceptional long-term care, ensure your safety, and achieve beautiful results.
A. Board certification matters
Choosing a board certified physician ensures that the doctor performing your procedure has specific, in-depth training and experience. With strict qualifications, rigorous examinations and ongoing assessments, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is the highest standard of measure for the cosmetic surgery specialty.
B. Find the right cosmetic surgeon for you
Along with having the appropriate training, experience, and board certification, the cosmetic surgeon you choose should be someone who listens to your needs and whose aesthetic sense aligns with your goals.
C. Make sure your surgeon operates in an accredited facility
Facility accreditation is essential for your safety. American Board of Cosmetic Surgery diplomates perform surgery only in accredited surgical facilities, which are equipped to handle emergency situations, staffed by fully qualified medical teams, and maintain highest standards for cleanliness and patient privacy.
3. Prepare for your consultation
Once you have narrowed down your list of cosmetic surgeons to consult with, educate yourself about your procedure options and prepare a list of questions to ask each surgeon during your consultations.
- Your cosmetic surgery consultation. Learn what to expect, what to ask, what to look for
- Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI). Your BMI may factor into whether you are good cosmetic surgery candidate
- Get ball-park procedure price ranges in your region.
- View before & after photos. See what’s possible with cosmetic surgery.
4. Find an ABCS board certified surgeon
Board certified cosmetic surgeons can be found across the entire United States.
