Do your homework bit be prepared; complications occur even in the best of hands

Otto Joseph Placik, MD answers: How to tell if I got a good plastic surgeon?

How can you make sure you have found a very good plastic surgeon? I want a Breast reduction and Tummy Tuck but I'm afraid it will end up a disaster. I want to make sure that I've found someone very good because I can only afford to do this once and I couldn't afford to have a botched job fixed.


Otto Joseph Placik, MD
7 months ago

You have a couple of different issues here:

  1. Finding a good plastic surgeon
  2. Wanting a perfect result the first time around.

While the first is an important decision and one that has been answered, the second reveals  aspects of your situation which may not make you a suitable candidate for surgery,

Generally, no one (paitent or surgeon) goes into surgery thinking that they want to do a "botched job" as you put it. We are professionals that have taken alot of time in our training to get where we are as board certified plastic surgeons. We count on delivering a result that makes the patient happy and encourages them to spread the word to friends and family. That is how we best succeed.

Complications, even in the best of hands occur. If you are not prepared to manage this, you may want to reconsider the operation. No one plans on getting into a car accident but that is why we buy car insurance.

The truth is one measure of "a very good plastic surgeon" is one that can manage an unforeseen complication.

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A: You can find a surgeon right for you.

Peter E. Johnson, MD
7 months ago

Choosing a plastic surgeon can seem like a very difficult process, however the selection starts right after the first impression. Before you schedule any appointment you should make sure the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. It is also helpful to view the practice website to help you understand the flavor and texture of the office you wish to visit. also you will be able to confirm that your surgeon is affiliated with a highly rated hospital in the area.

You may begin to understand the practice philosophy right after you enter the office. The environment should be comfortable, the staff polite and attentive, and the physician should be interested in you as an individual, spend time to fully understand your concerns, and make recommendations that are clearly explained and make sense to you. You should know during your visit if the surgeon and staff is interested in caring for you, or whether you are just another customer in their practice.

The relationship between you and the surgeon and practice is an important one. Look for a practice that will stand with you and support you through any anticipated procedure. You will know it when you see it. If not, keep looking.

Best of luck,

peterejohnsonmd

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