Medical Malpractice

Choosing a licensed and qualified facial plastic surgeon is essential. Depending on the nature of your procedure, you will have to undergo invasive surgery. So it's important to choose a doctor that provides superior care. However, finding a great surgeon can be easier said than done. Learn the traits of a high-quality plastic surgeon, including background, board certifications, and other qualities.

What is Board Certification?

When choosing a facial doctor, remember that you should be aware of their history, education credentials, and certification standing. While board certified is a desirable quality in a facial plastic surgeon, it doesn't mean that they are actually qualified. There are several self-appointed boards of cosmetic surgery that aren't recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. For a board certification to really mean anything, the board should have tested the doctor in a variety of procedures. Plus, the doctor will have had to graduate from an accredited college. In America, all qualified surgeons will possess a certification from the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Learn to Recognize a Good Doctor

When searching for someone to perform the procedure, ensure you find one that is open about their educational training, credentials, safety records, outcomes, and experience. A great one should be:
- Professional and easy to speak with
- Passionate about their practice
- Have an eye for detail
- Concerned about your well-being and healing
- Have several before-and-after pictures

Questions to Ask Potential Doctors

In addition to spotting the qualities of a good option, patients should also ask plenty of questions. These questions can help you determine if your plastic surgeon is a good fit:
- What board certifications do you have?
- What is your educational training and background?
- Have you performed any internships?
- Do you believe in anesthesia?
- Are you affiliated with any hospitals?
- Will the surgery be performed in an accredited facility?
- Have you ever had your insurance coverage suspended, denied, or revoked due to malpractice?

In addition to their educational background, consider asking questions about the surgery; before, during, and after. These questions can help get you off to a good start:
- Is surgery the decision?
- How many procedures have you performed successfully?
- How many hours will the surgery take?
- Will anesthesia be used?
- What is the expected recovery time?
- Are there any risks with this procedure?
- How long will the results last?
- What is your policy on unsatisfactory results? Will you perform a second procedure free?

Consider keeping this list handy during your consultation. Often times patients will simply be too excited or scared during this important meeting and they will forget to ask the critical questions. Of course this list is not complete, but just a good starting point for you.

As you can see, choosing the right plastic surgeon is essential for optimal results. After all, they'll be performing surgery on your most precious asset, your face. If you've decided to take the plunge, take your time and do your research. This is one case where you don't want to wind up with buyer's remorse.