A most difficult question

Nothing is guaranteed. A good result from a fantastic surgeon is not guaranteed. One important thing is to trust a doctor with knowledge of that doctor, not just blind trust. A good place to start is with your internist or gynecologist. They are not going to ruintheir reputation by referring to "bad" surgeons. Gynecologist also have a good feel because all women have gyncologists and all problems fromcosmetic surgery are eventually seen by gynecologist. I believe that one important thing about a surgeon is whether he or she has the experience, no-how, and personality to get you out of trouble if you are in trouble. Does the surgeon really listen to you? Does he discuss things so you can understand? Does he have the patience and personality to deal with "problems?" A doctor who gets exasperated with your questions or rushes around without listening to you, probably will not deal with individual problems well.

Finding a good surgeon is like finding a good spouse.There is not magic formula. But things are easy when everyone is healthy and happy, the kids are doing well, there's money in the bank and work is wonderful. The question is, how do things and relationships and trust hold up when things go bad.

On a more practical note, I would ask to speak with patients about their experience. Photos can be deceptive. A good post-op photo can still have an unhappy patient. The goal of surgery is not to do a procedure well but to get you what you want.

For breast reduction and tummy tuck, patients should consider board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery first.  They should then go to the website and confirm that their physician is indeed board certified in plastic surgery.

Next, they should read the CV, the resume of the doctor.  His qualifications will be in this document.  His schooling, residencies, publications, university affiliations (i.e. are they a Professor at a major university in addition to being in private practice?).

Next, where is the surgery performed?  It should an accredited surgery facility, not just an unaccredited room in the office.

Where is the doctor credentialed to practice?  A major hospital or nothing at all?  The hospital has their reputation at stake when they take on a doctor, so this is a valuable step.

The Medical Board website of your state should list major problems the doctor has had.

Next, the consultation.  The before-after pictures, demeanor of the doctor's staff and your interaction with the surgeon are all important.  When you are in the right office, they will know it without doubt.

Last, ask your family doctor if he has heard of the reputation of the surgeon.  All doctors have their "referral networks" (even our office)!, and not all good doctors refer to all other good doctors.  If asked whether the surgeon has a good reputation, however, you will likely get an honest assessment.

This process takes a little time, but is preferable to searching the world for somebody who can fix the results of a bad surgery.  There is no one single source patients can visit for who is and who is not a good doctor.

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Although there is never a guarantee of a favorable outcome from ones surgery, you dramatically increase your chances of being happy by following a few simple rules.

1. Make sure your surgeon is a board certified plastic surgeon, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
2. Ask how many of these particular procedures he/she has performed in private practice.
3. Always ask to see their before and after photos.
4. Ask to speak to a patient of theirs that has had the same procedures.
5. BE COMFORTABLE WITH YOUR SURGEON!

If you are that unsure, get a few more opinions before proceding with your surgery. Best of luck.

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