How risky is Breast reduction by non-ABMS surgeon?

My doctor studied medicine and plastic surgery in South Africa. He's Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the South African College of Medicine & the Medical Council of New Zealand. He's also Board Certified in General Surgery by the South African College of Medicine and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

He has over 20 years of experience and now works in Colorado. But  for him to hold an American Board of Plastic Surgery certificate, he's required to have had surgery training completed in the USA. Am I taking a risk to have my Breast reduction with this doctor?

Sort: Date | Helpful
7 answers to “How risky is Breast reduction by...”

A: asprs

Rodger Wade Pielet, MD

It is not a bad idea to seek a second opion from a Board Certified Plastic surgeon.  Also interview patients that have had surgery done by this Doctor.  Good Luck

A: ABPS benchmark

Michael C. Edwards, MD

    If you are concerned about your surgeon, fall back on a certification you can rely on. The surgeon you talk about sounds well-trained but what made them relocate to the states where they knew they would not be able to attain BC? Most likely you would have a fine result but you visit other... more

A: Not US board certified

Steven Wallach, MD

 While your surgeon may be extremely qualified, if he is not boarded in the US, it may not be a good idea to have him do your surgery.  Be careful.  There are plenty of board certified plastic surgeons in your area.

A: In this case, it is probably OK, but typically I wouldn't recommend it

Manish H. Shah, MD

Being from Denver, I know your surgeon. His reputation is excellent. South African surgeons tend to be exceedingly well trained. I would speak to his other breast reduction patients to get an idea about his work. You can also find out if he has any complaints lodged against him with the Colorado Board of... more

A: ABPS is best

Richard P. Rand, MD

Certainly the situation you describe is unusual and the surgeon might be experienced and qualified.   Generally, there will be many well qualified American Board of Plastic Surgery qualified surgeons in Colorado whom you can go to without this concern.  Go with your gut instinct here. 

A: Each situation is different

Shahram Salemy, MD

 In this particular case, I think you are probably in good shape, as long as you have access to some of his before and after photos as well as the ability to speak with some of his patients about their experience.  I think in general, being Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic... more

A: Is he a member of ISAPS?

Steven Teitelbaum, MD

Though he may not be ABPS certirfied, there are certain professional organziations of plastic surgeons that provide at least a modicum of recognition of  qualifications. Check to see if he is a member of ISAPS, the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.  And even ASPS, the American... more

Post your question

Breast reduction before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.