Like at a med spa with a regular doctor?
Great question; thank you!Your question specifically addresses SAFETY of the procedure relative to the board certification status of the provider. I wish I could tell you that every physician performing Vaser liposuction does it the same and meets all standards of care with respect to safety, but, unfortunately, that probably is not the case. As I am sure you are finding out, the answer to your question will depend upon the certifications of the physicians answering it. Most likely, any board certified plastic surgeon will tell you that only they can guarantee your safety and provide excellent results. Since I am not a board certified plastic surgeon, I would strongly argue against that advice. I am a board certified COSMETIC Surgeon, however, and I have performed liposuction, both Vaser and many other types, nearly every single work day for the past 6-7 years. My experience in liposuction far exceeds that of most board certified plastic surgeons. I only use an accredited, state-licensed ambulatory surgical facility, which meets or exceeds every safety standard outlined by both boards noted above.My colleagues with primary medical specialties ranging from Ob/Gyn to otolaryngology and general surgery and who are also board certified through the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), all practice at these high standards, yet we are a constant target of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and its board, as there is a professional turf-war occurring along these lines. The reality of the matter is that any physician, even non-surgeons, can legally offer and perform these services and there will be some individual variability in how they conduct their procedures. Both of the above-referenced boards have defined standards of care, to which their diplomates are held. Indeed, you can get safe treatment and have outstanding results, even if your physician is not a board certified plastic surgeon. Conversely, individual physicians of either board may go against the standards of their respective boards and provide substandard care. At least, if your physician is a member of one of these two boards, you can be assured that he or she has the training and qualifications to perform these procedures. If you have further questions regarding the difference between plastic vs. cosmetic surgery, I encourage you to visit the links, below.
A study published a few years ago showed that most of the major complications occurring from aesthetic/plastic surgery procedures are caused by non-certified, non-plastic surgeons.I highly discourage you from seeking Vaser lipo from someone who is not board certified in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery. You can check certifications on the American Board of Medical Specialties website to make sure. It's not worth the risk.
