How to Choose a Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon

You should consider and compare doctors’ education, training, experience, and proven competence with respect to the specific cosmetic procedure you seek. At a minimum, ask your doctor the following questions:

1. How long have you been performing the specific procedure?

2. Where did you receive your training with respect to the procedure? What continuing medical education (“CME”) have you completed with respect to the procedure?

3. How much experience do you have performing the procedure? How many have you performed in total? How many have you performed over the past year?

4. How do you define success with regard to the procedure? What is your success rate performing the procedure? How many of your patients have returned for revisions or corrections with respect to the procedure? How many of your patients have returned for revisions or corrections in general?

5. May I review “before and after” pictures of those who have had the procedure performed by you?

6. Where will you perform my procedure? Is the facility accredited? 7. Are there any alternatives to the procedure that may exist considering the desired result?

7. What are the risks and possible complications? Before the surgery, your doctor should explain to you the risks and possible complications, and potential side effects, including the pros and cons of the procedure. In addition, ask about the surgeon’s privileges in an accredited surgery center or a hospital to perform cosmetic surgery.