When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is critical to understand the surgeon\u2019s qualifications. Unfortunately, the law allows individuals to perform \u201ccosmetic\u201d surgical procedures without having had formal training in plastic surgery. Many of these individuals will have created a variety of pseudo-certifications and societies that look very much like “real” plastic surgery qualifications. This is meant to confuse the public and it is a common but inappropriate practice.<\/p>\n
True training in plastic surgery involves at least 6 years of surgical training after 4 years of medical school. Mine lasted 8 years because I completed full Board Certified training in general surgery before my plastic surgery training began. Training is done in an accredited plastic surgery residency program. Under the watchful eye of experienced surgeons, the principles and practices of plastic surgery are taught. Upon successful completion of training, a new plastic surgeon seeks to become certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This is the only plastic surgery Board recognized as being legitimate by the American Board of Medical Specialties.<\/p>\n
An extensive written examination is followed at another time by an exhaustive oral examination process. Only after passing these tests can the surgeon state that they are Board Certified in Plastic Surgery. Consequently, American Board of Plastic Surgery credentials are the base minimum requirement you should look seek as you begin your search for a surgeon.
\nFully trained plastic surgeons are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (www.plasticsurgery.org). They often have shown a specific focus in aesthetic surgery and are members of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (www.surgery.org). Membership in the ASAPS indicates a special interest in aesthetic plastic surgery.\t\t<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Qualifications When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is critical to understand the surgeon\u2019s qualifications. Unfortunately, the law allows individuals to perform \u201ccosmetic\u201d surgical procedures without having had formal training in plastic surgery. Many of these individuals will have created a variety of pseudo-certifications and societies that look very much like “real” plastic surgery qualifications. This … Continue reading Choosing a Plastic Surgeon<\/span>