No idea where to start looking for tummy tuck doctor - what questions should I ask & what are red flags?

This is a fantastic question. When searching for a tummy tuck surgeon, it's important to ask about their experience, qualifications, and approach to the procedure. Some questions to consider include:

How many tummy tuck procedures have you performed?
Are you board-certified in plastic surgery?
Can I see before and after photos of your tummy tuck patients?
What is your approach to patient care and safety during and after the surgery?
What are the potential risks and complications associated with tummy tuck surgery?
What type of anesthesia do you use, and who will administer it?
What is the recovery process like, and what kind of post-operative care do you provide?
Do you have hospital privileges, and where do you perform the surgery?
Can you provide references or patient testimonials?

Red flags to watch out for include:

Lack of board certification or relevant training in plastic surgery.
Unwillingness to provide before and after photos or discuss potential risks.
Pressure to undergo additional procedures or upselling of unnecessary services.
Poor communication or bedside manner during the consultation.
Use of outdated or unsafe surgical techniques.
To research a doctor's background, you can check their credentials and board certification through official medical websites or directories. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous patients, and consider scheduling consultations with multiple surgeons to compare their recommendations and comfort level. Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose a surgeon who makes you feel confident and well-informed about your decision.

A great place to begin is the ASPS website. Here you will find a list of board certified plastic surgeons in your area. You can find links to their websites. You can review their backgrounds and look at before/after photos. You can then choose a few who meet your criteria to schedule consultations with. It is important that you choose a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable and confident as you will want to be able to communicate openly with any questions or concerns both before and after surgery.

Thanks so much for your question,
When looking for a Plastic Surgeon, it's crucial to find a qualified and experienced surgeon to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Here are some questions you may want to ask when selecting a doctor for your tummy tuck:
Are you board-certified in plastic surgery?
What is your educational background and training in plastic surgery?
How many years of experience do you have in performing tummy tucks?
Can you provide before-and-after photos of previous tummy tuck patients?

It's essential to have open and honest communication with your potential surgeon to ensure you feel comfortable and well-informed about the procedure,

Sincerly,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol