Is it safe to choose a surgeon for a mommy makeover who isn’t certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

Let’s flip this question and talk about what it takes to become a board certified plastic surgeon
1. At least 6 years of surgical residency focused on plastic surgery
2. A written board exam you must pass
3. An oral exam you must pass evaluating your ability to take care of the full spectrum of plastic surgery as well as review of cases performed by the surgeon
4. Mandatory ethics and safety guidelines to follow with regard to patient care and surgery
5. The American Board of Plastic Surgeons is one of only 23 boards under the umbrella of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Let me assure you the board of cosmetic surgery has no plan of joining the ABMS because their education, certifying exams and physician oversight do not meet the standards of the organization.

Apparently there are also individuals who have finished plastic surgery training who have not passed the first step of board certification- the written board exam - but pass themselves off as plastic surgeons.

I hope this answers your question about why you should seek a board certified plastic surgeon. You can find one at plasticsurgery.org.

Buglesalmoncat,
Choosing a surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery is a very important step to ensure the level of education, training, and experience of your surgeon. To become board certified by ABPS, a doctor must have completed a surgical residency or fellowship in plastic surgery, passed both a written and oral exam, adhere to ethical and safety guidelines, operate in accredited facilities, and participate in continuing medical education. The Board of Cosmetic Surgery is not recognized by the America Board of Medical Specialties because they have not set the same level of expectations of their members. Chose wisely because these things matter.
Dr Stein

Board-certification is there for a reason to ensure surgeons meet agreed upon standards and are providing safe care for their patients.

My suspicion is by the very that you are asking this question that you are concerned about your surgeons’ credentials. American Board of Plastic Surgery certified surgeons are the ONLY surgeons who received training in palstic surgery of the breast and body… period. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is not a true board… they are not recognized by the American Baord of Medical Specialties (the governing board that oversees ALL accepted board certifications. Cosmetic surgeons can come from any specialty and there are no standardized training requirements as those of us who are ABPS certified went through. There is no substitute for proper training… you wouldn’t go to a dentist for a PAP smear, don’t do that for your plastic surgery.

It is most advisable to choose a certified aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon, since they initially have training in general medicine, subsequently complete a postgraduate degree in general surgery and subsequently perform a subspecialty in plastic surgery, which equips the surgeon in a more comprehensive way to resolve possible complications. The cosmetic surgeon does not have the academic training that fully supports him, he can possibly perform surgeries with less experience, however, when surgical complications arise, the certified reconstructive aesthetic plastic surgeon will have more experience and knowledge to resolve them.

Thank you for your question. The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and certifies surgeons completed rigorous training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. ABMS does not recognize the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). While the ABCS does have a certification process that includes training in cosmetic procedures, it is not considered equivalent to boards recognized by the ABMS. While this surgeon may have experience and positive reviews, it is crucial to verify the extent of her training, particularly in mommy makeover procedures. Additionally, ensure that the surgeries are performed in accredited facilities that adhere to strict safety standards. It's also wise to confirm that the surgeon has hospital privileges for these procedures, as this often demonstrates a recognized level of competence. Consider meeting with both ABPS-certified plastic surgeons and this surgeon before making your decision to make a well-informed choice that aligns with your safety and aesthetic goals.

It sounds like this surgeon has training in facial surgery, but I would caution anyone choosing to undergo breast and body plastic surgery performed by a surgeon with such credentials. One important factor to consider when choosing a surgeon in confirming that they indeed have admitting privileges to a nearby hospital and typically a "cosmetic" surgeon does not have such privileges if a postoperative compliation were to occur. I highly recommend you seek out an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. Best of luck in your aesthetic journey!

Would you let a plastic surgeon do your c-section or your brain surgery? Non board certified plastic surgeons have no formal and controlled training in the field of plastic surgery. They may get away with a few cases but how could you trust a plumber to do your electric work?

Board Certification is confusing for many. The only Board that certifies true plastic surgeons is the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This reflects the rigorous training necessary to obtain certification.Any specialty including a maxillofacial surgeon can get Certification by the "American Board of Cosmetic Surgery". The difference is that this Board is not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.My suggestion would be to find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

To be certified by the American Board of Plastic surgery is a very rigorous and lengthy experience. These are individuals who have gone through extensive training and examinations both oral and written to accomplish this certification. The cosmetic surgery board is comprised of any doctor and any speciality without this training. I personally would never recommend a patient having your type of surgery to anyone who is not certified appropriately.

Thanks so much for your inquire,

Choosing a surgeon who is certified is highly recommended, especially for complex procedures like a mommy makeover, which combines multiple surgeries, such as a tummy tuck, breast lift, and liposuction. Certification ensures that the surgeon has completed the rigorous training required in plastic surgery, including comprehensive exams and continuing education to stay current with advancements and safety protocols in the field.

Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon minimizes risks. They’re trained in plastic and reconstructive surgery techniques, adhere to strict safety standards, and are equipped to handle potential complications. Choosing a certified surgeon also means the surgery will likely be performed in an accredited facility, adding another layer of safety.