Finding a Reputable Cosmetic Surgeon

If you are planning to have any plastic or cosmetic surgery done, either for appearance reasons or for reconstructive/functional reasons, it is imperative that you find a good doctor to perform the surgery. Much of the plastic surgery performed nowadays may seem to be a routine procedure, especially the common procedures like breast augmentation and face-lifts, however it is important to remember that all surgical operations contain an element of risk. Therefore, a reputable cosmetic surgeon should perform even the most routine cosmetic surgery.

If you have a regular physician, you should ask him or her to recommend a plastic surgeon for the procedure you wish to have done. Secondly, you should make sure the surgeon is a member of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. This basic check should be done before you meet with the surgeon for your initial consultation.

When you meet the cosmetic surgeon for the first time, you should know the questions that are important to ask and have answered. Firstly, inquire about the surgeon's experience with the particular cosmetic surgery you wish to have performed. Also ask about the risks that are involved and the likelihood of complications. Find out how long it will take to recover from your surgery and the amount of time that you would be required to remain in the hospital. Also ask for referrals. A good plastic surgeon should have countless numbers of satisfied patients.

The doctor should also ask you a number of questions pertaining to your medical history and current medications, as well as any allergies from which you may suffer. This is important because it can determine the type of anesthesia they give you when performing the cosmetic surgery.

A good cosmetic surgeon will examine you to determine if you are a good candidate for a surgical procedure, which would include health and physical tests as well as your mental stability. It is important to keep this in mind as you meet with the cosmetic surgeon. Many people are under the impression that they can schedule plastic surgery without having weeks of consultation and evaluation. This is simply not the case. A good cosmetic surgeon will make sure you are ready - physically and mentally - for the trauma of plastic surgery. There are, however, cosmetic procedures that can be done on an outpatient basis such as Botox injections and laser skin treatments. While these are not major surgeries and will not require in-depth consultations, your cosmetic physician should make sure you are healthy enough for these minimally invasive procedures as well. Any reputable cosmetic surgeon will not perform a surgical procedure if they feel it can pose a danger to the patient's health.

Most importantly, find the doctor that you feel a strong connection with and can fully put your trust into. The right cosmetic surgeon for you is someone whom you feel comfortable with and has the experience and knowledge to give you the outcome you desire.