Four Factors To Consider When Selecting A Surgeon For Plastic Surgery

If you are thinking about plastic surgery, you are probably wondering which surgeon you should choose. The El Paso Times gives important guidelines in choosing a plastic surgeon for your cosmetic enhancement goals.

One important consideration among many patients is selecting a surgeon who has attained certification by an examining board. Claims of certification can be confusing. "Turf battles" sometime lead one group to claim superiority over others. In truth, oftentimes boards overlap. You may have a choice of good surgeons certified by more than one board, depending on the procedure you have in mind.

The American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery focuses solely on facial plastic surgery. It requires that a surgeon have previously achieved basic certification in either otolaryngology/head-and-neck surgery or general plastic surgery. The surgeon must also successfully complete a two-day examination and submit a hundred patient cases for peer review. Surgeons certified by that board are "double-boarded." They have two certifications: a basic certification in either head-and-neck surgery or general plastic surgery and an advanced certification focused on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

The American Board of Otolaryngology focuses on head-and-neck surgery. Its certificate specifically states that it includes facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. The examination given by that board in head-and-neck surgery includes facial plastic surgery.

The American Board of Plastic Surgery addresses general plastic and reconstructive surgery of the entire body, including areas outside the face, such as hands, abdomens and breasts. For female patients in Tampa breast implants and other figure-enhancing cosmetic procedures offer wonderful possibilities and it’s vital that they confirm their plastic surgeon’s qualifications to reap the optimal benefits of cosmetic enhancement surgery.

Certification by a specialty board is only one factor to consider, however, you should also consider at least four other factors.

First, what do other patients think? Find out from your friends who have had plastic surgery what they think of their surgeons.

Second, can you relate to the surgeon? With regards to surgical operation procedures such as facelifts, liposuction and breast augmentation Tampa plastic surgery specialists emphasize that you deserve a surgeon who can explain what the surgery will realistically accomplish and what you can expect by way of results and recovery. Also focus on the staff. You'll spend substantial time with them before and after the surgery. Are they helpful, knowledgeable and available?

Third, where will the surgery take place? Many surgeons perform cosmetic surgery in their nearby ambulatory surgery centers designed specifically for plastic surgery. Some patients prefer this, because it can provide comfort, convenience, and specialized focus on the patient. Look for a facility accredited by an independent national organization. Other surgeons operate only in the hospital. The cost and convenience of the facility can vary. Before making your final decision, you should make sure you are comfortable with the planned facility and plastic surgeon Tampa cosmetic surgery experts agree.

Fourth, make sure you understand the financial arrangements. Most cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance. Also, you will probably have to pay for at least part of the surgery in advance. Make sure you understand whether you will owe any amount if you decide to cancel the surgery. Watch out for high-pressure sales pitches. You want a Tampa plastic surgeon more interested in your health than in your money. More information describing plastic surgery procedures are available online at http://www.egoziplasticsurgery.com/.