Is American Board Cosmetic Surgery a trustworthy certification?

Question

I'm scheduled for surgery with a doctor who is certified by the American Board Cosmetic Surgery. Is this certification a credible certification? I have heard of his unfortunate BBL deaths. Most of his work has great reviews from all his patients that I have seen and I absolutely love the small waist he gives. I don't want to buy into possible over dramatized stories not knowing that maybe those patients didn't follow proper instructions before their surgery, yet again I don't want to be foolish. ??

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The integrated plastic surgery program is the most competitive residency by far coming out of medical school.  These individuals are at the top of the medical school class and have very high scores on the medical board exams.  Most plastic surgeons will spend 6 to 10 years training after medical school, followed by a written exam with low pass rate, and then an oral exam with an even lower pass rate.  Thus, a board certified plastic surgeon has been rigorously tested to be sure.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

While there are many practitioners of cosmetic surgery, only a select few are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. The American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS) is the only board certification in plastic and reconstructive surgery which is recognized by the American Board of Medical Examiners (ABME)
Certification assures graduation from an accredited medical school and completion of at least six years of surgical training following medical school (with a minimum of three years plastic surgery residency). These are among the most competitive training programs available to a graduating medical students. As a result, these programs are composed of the best and brightest of each graduating class (less than 100 per year). Once training is complete (6 years/7 years with fellowship), they will undergo rigorous examination both oral and written (with notoriously low pass/high fail rates meaning certification is extremely difficult).
Additionally, patients should verify that surgery is being performed in accredited, state-licensed or Medicare-certified surgical facilities.
There is absolutely no substitute for certification. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is a useful resource for seeking well trained and board certified physicians in your area.Patients should also be wary of surgeons claiming to be "board certified." Not all boards are equal. Every surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons must complete all of the above listed qualifications. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, on the other hand, is not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. These physicians are not necessarily plastic surgeons and may be from one of 6 other disciplines including: General surgery, Otolaryngology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ophthalmic or Oral and Maxillofacial surgery. They are then required to complete a 1 year cosmetic fellowship followed by an examination process.While they sound similar, there are a few key differences. Remember, certification means certainty. ABPS certification means that your surgeon is in fact a PLASTIC SURGEON selected from among the best of the best of each graduating class to train specifically in PLASTIC SURGERY. They are not a fellowship trained OB or General Surgeon. Additionally, recognition by the ABMS ensures a certain training and examinations standard for all diplomates.As always, your best choice is a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons.

Carolina Restrepo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the most prestigious professional society in the world for plastic surgery. You definitely have to choose your surgeon correctly and make sure that he/she has the training and experience to meet your goals with absolute safety.  Best is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with specialized expertise in this procedure.

Frederick G. Weniger, MD, FACS, MBA · Answer

Much like all the below comments, it is important that you choose a board certified plastic surgeon (ASPS). The board of cosmetic surgery is NOT a recognized. I will provide a link for you do perform a search. Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I think that you want to stick with a board such as the ABPS( American Board of plastic surgery) and the like. I believe, that the ABCS is not a recognized board  by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Stefan Rene Adair, MD · Answer

The Board of "cosmetic" surgery is not a recognized board. You should consult with a surgeon who is truly board certified as a plastic surgeon (ABPS). ASPS and ASAPS websites can guide you. Best of luck.

James Fernau, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question.If you are considering having a BBL surgery with a doctor who has performed this surgery which has resulted in deaths, I would definitely consider your decision.  While every surgery can have risks, I would search for a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon that has performed numerous BBL's, has lots of before and after photos and great reviews.  To become a board certified plastic surgeon is a rigorous process. You must undergo a minimum of 6 years of training, there are oral and written exams which will test for knowledge, skill and safety.  The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is vastly different. Those certified are not plastic surgeons.  There is no surgical training or testing, just the requirement of a license to practice medicine and hospital privileges, which sometimes are not even required.  There is no emphasis on skill or safety. I recommend going to ABPS or ASAPS to find a board certified surgeon in your area.  It is in your best interest to seek a surgeon who is a fully trained individual to achieve the best possible outcome.  Best of luck in your endeavors.Sincerely,
James Fernau, MD, FACSBoard Certified ENTBoard Certified Plastic SurgeryMember of ASPS, ASAPS, ISAPS, The Rhinoplasty Society, AAFPRS, OTO/HNS, ASLMS, International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics & Science

Is American Board Cosmetic Surgery a trustworthy certification?

Answers (7)

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