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?

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7 answers to “How risky is Breast reduction by...”

A: Is he a member of ISAPS?

Steven Teitelbaum, MD
By Steven Teitelbaum, MD - Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

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

A: Each situation is different

Shahram Salemy, MD
By Shahram Salemy, MD - Seattle Plastic Surgeon

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

Manish H. Shah, MD
By Manish H. Shah, MD - Denver Plastic Surgeon

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
By Richard P. Rand, MD - Seattle Plastic Surgeon

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: Not US board certified

Steven Wallach, MD
By Steven Wallach, MD - Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

 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: ABPS benchmark

Michael C. Edwards, MD
By Michael C. Edwards, MD - Las Vegas Plastic Surgeon

    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: asprs

Rodger Wade Pielet, MD
By Rodger Wade Pielet, MD - Chicago Plastic Surgeon

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

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