How important is the FACS designation on a plastic surgeon?

Question

How important is the FACS designation on a plastic surgeon? I am trying to figure out which doctor to choose to pay for a consultation. TIA!

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

FACS stands for Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. It is an organization to which some surgeons apply for and join. The organization has defined standards, hold meeting, and publish surgery related research. It is a voluntary society much like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. It should not be confused with surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Boards which are part of the American Collage of Medical Specialties adhere to the highest standards of professional knowledge and standards. They exist to serve the public and the medical profession by improving the quality of health care through setting professional standards.
So, who do you go to? The one who knows what you want, knows how to do it, and the one you feel most comfortable talking to. Best of luck.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

FACS is a respected credential and is generally a positive sign, but it should not be the only factor you use to choose a plastic surgeon. It means the surgeon has met standards for membership in the American College of Surgeons, but it does not replace checking whether the surgeon is board-certified in plastic surgery, has strong experience with the exact procedure you want, operates in an accredited facility, and has hospital privileges.

For a tummy tuck consultation, I would weigh board certification, body-contouring experience, before-and-after results on patients with similar anatomy, safety planning, revision policy, and how clearly the surgeon explains risks and options. If two surgeons seem equally strong, FACS may help tip the scale, but a non-FACS surgeon can still be an excellent choice if the other qualifications are solid.

Fouad V. Atalla, MD · Answer

When considering plastic surgery, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing a qualified and experienced provider. Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures that your surgeon has completed rigorous training, passed comprehensive exams, and meets the high standards set by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
It’s also important to look for surgeons who are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Membership in the ASPS indicates that the surgeon adheres to strict ethical guidelines, maintains ongoing education, and stays up-to-date with the latest techniques and safety standards in plastic surgery.
Researching your surgeon’s educational background and verifying their board certification and professional memberships gives you greater confidence in your care, your results, and your overall safety.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

The CS in FACS does not stand for cosmetic surgeon. This stands for fellow of the American College of surgeons.  Patients are often confused about this. What’s important is certification by the American society of plastic surgeons. Doctors just like having the extra four letters after their name. I never bothered to join

Alfred R. Antonetti, MD · Answer

FACS means you are a Fellow in the America College of Surgeons. To be a member you have to be in practice and be certified by one of the surgery boards. As a diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, you are eligible to belong to FACS. You pay a big fee and continue to pay every year to belong. Only surgeons with good credentials can become members. I am a member and use the FACS after my name. It made me feel good but I don't know if it has ever done anything for me. Most of the members are general surgeons and it is a lot more important for them. For a plastic surgeon I believe it has lost a lot of its relevance. To a plastic surgeon it is a lot more important and prestigious to belong the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and a lot of us belong to this as well. Hope this answers your question.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The first step when selecting a surgeon is research.  You want to choose someone who is board certified, is experienced, and someone who has the credentials that meet your standards.  On my website I include information about myself, my medical background and qualifications as well a photo gallery of patient results.  This way prospective patients can feel confident in the surgeon they are going to see before scheduling a consultation.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

FACS is the Fellow in the American College of Surgeons which a prestigious designation open to all board-certified surgeons who qualify for this. It does go beyond board certification in their specialty. Not all board-certified surgeons apply and not all qualify for this. These initials do get to go behind our name.  Some younger surgeons may be in the process of applying and have not yet received.  However, just having these added letters does not mean the surgeon is the best one in the area. Do check out their photos.

Mark T. Boschert, MD · Answer

This designation is basically a club that anyone can join for a fee and a few easy requirements. I am not sure why it ever became something that surgeons advertised. That designation says absolutely nothing about their training abilities. Do you research about the surgeon, what is their board certification, is it truly Plastic Surgery. And what is their experience. Those are much more important for your outcome. Best of luck! Dr. Boschert.

How important is the FACS designation on a plastic surgeon?

Answers (8)

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