5 Reasons You Should Choose a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

On top of the stress of surgery, you shouldn’t have to worry about your doctor’s credibility. However, it is legal (and common) for any physician to perform plastic surgery procedures – even if he or she hasn’t been specially trained or accredited. Just like you wouldn’t go to a mechanic to get your hair cut, you shouldn’t rely on a non-board certified doctor for surgery. Selecting your doctor carefully should be a top priority when you begin to explore the possibility of plastic surgery. And the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) makes it easy by certifying capable doctors as board certified plastic surgeons. Here are five reasons you should choose a board certified plastic surgeon:

1. Training. You can rest assured that board certified surgeons know their stuff. Surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery must undergo at least three years of general surgery training and two years of plastic surgery training. They are also known to have the lowest rate of complications and are specifically trained to help you achieve your best look.
2. Aesthetic Expertise. Board certified plastic surgeons aren’t just trained in the actual surgery; they also spend years refining their aesthetic skills. They know how certain procedures will turn out, can make recommendations on a facelift vs. Botox®, know how to perform surgery to achieve the patient’s desired look, and how to bridge the gap between dream and reality. Attention to detail, knowledge of the human body, and refined aesthetics create great plastic surgeons.
3. Testing. In addition to the years of training a board certified plastic surgeon must go through, he or she must pass rigorous written and oral examinations and adhere to a strict code of medical ethics. These physicians have extensive knowledge on the inner-workings of plastic surgery, proven by their test scores, and are highly capable of ensuring your cosmetic wishes are fulfilled.
4. Education beyond school. To maintain status as a board certified plastic surgeon, a physician must meet ABPS standards and continue their education beyond their five years of training. This keeps them up-to-date on new trends, ensures they are using advanced technology, up-to-date research and more advanced techniques, and keeps them engaged in lifelong learning.
5. Patient dedication. Because board certification is completely voluntary (any physician can perform cosmetic procedures), you know your physician is dedicated to delivering the highest quality surgery and care. The additional time commitment and energy it takes to become and continue to be board certified is a huge undertaking.

The ABPS sets high standards for physicians. There are many different ‘boards’ for plastic surgeons to be recognized by, but the ABPS is the only one recognized and overseen by the American Board of Medical Specialties that certifies in the full spectrum of plastic surgery. Contact us today for a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hueneke.