Best rhinoplasty specialist in the SF Bay Area, CA?

A couple of things to keep in mind when looking for a rhinoplasty specialist.  Board Certified in both Facial Plastic surgery and Otolaryngology (ENT) is a great start.  Actual before and after photo's of real patients, not just computer images.  You are correct though, at the end of the day, you have to go with your gut. Also, read the reviews and take some time to see if they are legitimate or ask the office about them.  Be Well and good luck!

Thanks so much for your question! Finding the right facial plastic surgeon can be tricky, but I'm glad to hear that you've been doing your research! You will definitely want to look into each physicians credentials to find someone who has had the training and experience to provide you with the best possible rhinoplasty result. Patients usually benefit from finding a surgeon like myself who is double board certified in both facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology (ENT). This is important because it indicates that the physician has experience addressing both cosmetic and functional nasal concerns. Reading reviews online is a great place to start, but many offices will offer prospective patients the chance to speak with patients who have recently had a rhinoplasty procedure. There's no better way to get real answers to your questions than by speaking to a patient who has already had surgery with that physician. Finally, I would suggest not letting the doctors location impact your decision to consider them for your surgery. If you only search for doctors in your area, it greatly reduces your options. It's best to stay focused on their experience, eye for aesthetics, and overall philosophy when it comes to surgery to make sure that you find the best fit for you. Most offices also offer lots of information for out of town patients, which makes traveling for surgery much less intimidating. It's always best to do initial research online, and then proceed to have consultations with at least 2 physicians before making your final decision. Best of luck!

Dear PATIENT.INFOIn order to find the "best" rhinoplasty surgeon for your rhinoplasty, you need to find a well trained surgeon that can technically deliver the results YOU want. Training matters : In general, ENT trained Facial Plastic surgeons have experience and strength in reconstructive and airway rhinoplasty. Their specialty has evolved from cases that required septal work and was post fracture. Plastic surgery in rhinoplasty has historically evolved with a focus on aesthetic rhinoplasty. Having trained in both disciplines, I would say that if you have difficulty breathing through your nose and want a rhinoplasty, an ENT trained Facial plastic surgeon would be a good choice. If your problem is purely cosmetic, then you chances are an aesthetic Plastic surgeon would be an excellent choice. Experience : Rhinoplasty is impacted by time and longevity of results in many rhinoplasties are impacted by surgeon experience. In my opinion it takes at least 4 to 5 years of practice (or even longer) to really appreciate rhinoplasties. Surgeon's aesthetic : make sure the surgeon you choose has the same taste as you within reason. If someone has a series of pics that look overdone to you, you might end up with a similar result. Chemistry with the surgeon is just as important. make sure you feel comfortable that you are heard and your concerned are addressed. Ultimately choose 2-3 surgeons, go on consults and then make a well informed decision.

Seeing a surgeon's before and after photos is still the best way to evaluate him. Don't skimp on seeing the photos. Then, yes, there is a little bit of a leap of faith. Click on the "Web reference" link, just below my post here, for more on how to stay out of trouble while searching for a rhinoplasty surgeon.

I would obviously check the doctors training, board certifications and before and after photos when seeking a rhinoplasty consultation.  A double board certified facial plastic surgeon means that he is board certified by BOTH the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.  This means that the doctor has specific training in facial plastic surgery, including rhinoplasty.