Tummy tuck at a teaching hospital - safe or not?

Question

There is a university in my area that teaches and certifies plastic surgeons. They offer a program where patients agree to get surgery done at a discounted rate to help the student finish their residency. I really want to get the procedure done but i wonder the safety. I know the students perform procedures all the time but I wonder would it be better to have a already certified surgeon do the tummy tuck or would I be okay in the hands of a student?

Ankur Mehta, MD · Answer

Hello Barbiegurl, You ask a very good question and that I am sure many people have wondered about. The short answer is YES it can be safe! I would just make sure its a residency for plastic surgery being run by actual plastic surgeons. Every plastic surgeon has been a resident at some point in time. The bottom line is plastic surgeons that have residents still understand that the patient is completely their responsibility. This means that there is usually close supervision. So in actuality, the important thing to do is make sure the faculty plastic surgeon you are choosing is right for you. Do your research and look up reviews. Hope this helps and wish you the best of luck!Ankur Mehta MD

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, having surgery at a teaching institution can be an excellent and rewarding experience.  The young surgeons in training have their degrees in medicine and are supervised by the teaching staff.  I am grateful everyday to the staff that trained me and the patients who trusted my training program to get their surgery.  Good Luck.

Erika Sato, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very safe to have a tummy tuck at a teaching hospital. This is a great way to have cosmetic plastic surgery in Houston for pricing similar to Miami or leaving the country.

Cain R. Linville, MD, FACS · Answer

I did many of these at my institution while I was in training, and my patients all turned out great.  Our surgeon was nearby in case we needed them (in the same building) and would check in on us from time to time during the surgery.  In the end, it all boils down to your actual surgeon, in this case, the resident who'd be doing it, and your comfort level with them.  You can ask them how many they've done, and their plan.  If anything, trainees tend to be a little more cautious than those of us who do these regularly and who are board-certified, and won't offer you things like full abdominal liposuction at the same time.  You should also be okay with the idea that you might need a revision.

Tummy tuck at a teaching hospital - safe or not?

Answers (4)

Answer: Resident clinic

Answer: Resident clinic

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Tummy tuck at a teaching hospital - safe or not?

Answers (4)

Answer: Resident clinic

Answer: Resident clinic

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.