Medical Malpractice

Many people have at one time or another secretly hoped that they looked like some movie star or sports personality they admire. Others have felt that life would probably treat them much better if they had a cuter face or were a bit taller. Modern science has brought us to new levels in the field of plastic surgery. Nowadays plastic surgeons are offering tummy tucks, breast augmentation, face-lifts, and nose jobs among many other procedures to willing clientele. You need to consider the following tips when choosing a plastic surgeon.

The first thing to do when choosing a plastic surgeon is to determine if the surgeon is certified by the relevant board as one who can practice in the field of plastic surgery. Being registered gives the surgeon credibility. Board certified surgeons would normally have undergone at least three years training in general surgery and two years training in plastic surgery. Certified surgeons also take oral and written tests from time to time. They undergo continuing education to upgrade their skills and sit for a written test every ten years. For your own peace of mind, therefore always deal with board certified doctors.

It is also your responsibility to conduct your own research to check on the performance record of the doctor. This is a crucial step when choosing a plastic surgeon. This kind of information is in the public domain and is easy enough to find. If you wish to check on the record of a particular doctor in your area, simply visit the local medical board's website. Most medical boards keep records on all their members including malpractices committed and disciplinary action taken.

It is important also to know if the doctor has any hospital privileges. This is a crucial criterion to follow up on when choosing a plastic surgeon. It is also necessary to know which particular hospitals provide such privileges to the doctor. Hospitals routinely conduct background checks on their doctors. They will not provide privileges to one whose reputation they are unaware of. Lack of hospital privileges should sound alarm bells in your mind. You never know why he or she has none. It is better to walk away as a matter of caution than expose yourself to risk.

As you attend pre-surgical appointments, seek to gather as much information as possible concerning the procedure. It would be advisable to go to the doctor's office with a trusted friend or family member. Your friend would probably inquire from the doctor in a more objective manner devoid of any emotion. Ask questions concerning the procedure. Also, observe how the doctor handles the appointment. Ask yourself if the doctor gave you enough time to ask questions or if the answers were satisfactory. Information gathered during such periods is important when choosing a plastic surgeon.

Finally, beware of any doctor suggesting that you undergo multiple procedures all at one go. The more procedures you undergo the higher the inherent risk. In many such instances, money is usually the primary motivation. Avoid such practitioners when choosing a plastic surgeon.