How do you find a qualified plastic surgeon? Most people are not aware that anyone with a medical degree can call himself or herself a plastic or cosmetic surgeon, advertise those services and perform them. Your first consideration should be to develop a list of well-qualified plastic surgeons. Recommendations from friends or your family physician are a good starting point.

Local hospitals can provide you with a list of board certified plastic surgeons with approval to perform the procedures you are considering. Board certification cannot guarantee great results, but it can certainly increase the odds.

The next step is to investigate your physician's credentials, such as board certification. If a physician indicates that he is board certified, make sure you question to which board he is referring. The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify plastic surgeons.

A surgeon who is ABPS certified has graduated from an accredited medical school and completed at least five years of additional residency. After this, the surgeon must practice plastic surgery for two years and pass comprehensive written and oral exams. You can verify this information through www.certifieddoctor.org.

**Dr. Bailey is board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery.**

Dr. Bailey has prepared the following check list to help you select the best plastic surgeon for your procedure.

Finally…Ask yourself how you felt after the initial consultation. The level of communication with your physician and his staff, as well as the confidence the surgeon inspires, are vital to the success of your surgery.

After you have narrowed your list of candidates, consider asking these questions during the initial consultation:

• Do you do this procedure frequently or only occasionally and when did you last perform this procedure?
  
• Are you board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgeons?
  
• Can you show me before and after photos of other patients who had undergone the same procedure?
  
• Can you discuss the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  
• What major hospitals and surgery centers are you affiliated with in the area?

Other Considerations in Choosing a Plastic Surgeon:

Surgeon: _________________________
Date of Consultation: ________________
Procedure(s): ______________________

• Did the surgeon spend time with you discussing your motivations and appearance goals?
• Is the surgeon experienced in performing this type of surgery?
• How many?
• When was the last time?
• Did the surgeon answer all questions in a language you could understand?
• Was the physician warm, caring and understanding?
• Were reception areas and exam rooms clean and neat?
• Were office staff friendly, professional and knowledgeable?
  

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