Trust your face to the best.
The growing demand for cosmetic procedures has encouraged physicians from various specialty backgrounds to assume the title "cosmetic surgeon". When choosing a surgeon it is important to understand the differences in training and board certifications.
A general plastic surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The general plastic surgeon has training in plastic and reconstructive surgery of the body including breasts, abdomen, body liposuction and reconstructive surgery of bed sores, burns, cleft palates and hand surgery. They also have training in facial plastic surgery.
Oral surgeons have training in dentistry with additional training in oral surgery including dental implants and jaw surgery. Oral surgeons have an MD degree, but most programs do not include any surgical training in facial plastic surgery.
Some dermatologists perform minor facial plastic surgery procedures. Their internship and residency programs do not include training in facial plastic surgery.
A facial plastic surgeon is typically board certified in otolaryngology, the specialty addressing surgery of the head and neck. These surgeons perform the majority of elective facial plastic surgery procedures in the United States. A board certified facial plastic surgeon has spent five to six years in post graduate surgical training. This includes one year of post graduate training in general surgery and at least four additional years of specialty training in head and neck surgery and facial plastic surgery. Concentrating on the complex anatomy, physiology, pathology, biochemistry, and bacteriology of all the organs and structures of the head and neck provides the facial plastic surgeon a strong focus on the anatomical region being treated.
Facial plastic surgeons are certified by The American Board of Otolaryngology, a board recognized by The American Board of Medical Specialties. Facial plastic surgery is included in the otolaryngology certification because it is an integral part of otolaryngology training, which is focused on the face, head, and neck. Some surgeons will also be certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery.
Choosing A Facial Plastic Surgeon
One of the most important factors for successful facial plastic surgery is the relationship between the patient and surgeon. An initial consultation provides the patient and surgeon an opportunity to discuss all that is involved in the desired procedure. It is advisable for the patient to write questions down before the consultation.
You may want to ask the following questions:
- Is he/she board certified? If so, by what boards.
- How many of these procedures has he/she done?
- May I see before and after pictures of your patients that have had this procedure?
- May I talk to one of your patients who has had this procedure?
- Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
- How long will the surgery take?
- How long is the recovery time?
- What are the risks involved?
- What is the cost for this procedure?
It is also a good idea to write down the answers the surgeon provides so that you can review the information carefully. The consultation also provides the chance to experience the personality style of the surgeon to see if it is compatible with yours.
You should be prepared to be candid with the surgeon about your medical history, any medications, allergies, habits, and background which could affect the outcome of the surgery. Photographs will be taken and reviewed with you. The surgeon can also describe what anesthesia he/she uses for each of the surgeries you are contemplating.from