Do Your Homework…

As someone familiar with the medical profession, before selecting a surgeon, I did research, including consulting with prospective physicians. It was vital to have a high confidence level in my selection. My paramount criteria were: education, certification, experience, reputation and, yes, even personality.

Though many specialties can perform cosmetic surgery*, being a board certified Plastic Surgeon was paramount since that achievement requires additional years of specialty training via a fellowship.

I also wanted a cosmetic surgeon who was somewhat younger because he/she, in my personal and unscientific opinion, seems more motivated to be up-to-date on the latest surgical techniques. Additionally, although personality doesn't affect competence, it should be considered because, during what can be a stressful experience, a caring bedside manner is very comforting before and after surgery!

I had facial surgery so, because cosmetic surgery is about improving one's appearance, having a "critical eye" to create what is best for that individual patient is a valuable talent – I didn't want a "one-size-fits-all" procedure. This artistic approach was my final piece of the puzzle to select Dr. Dallas Buchanan. I'm happy I did!

In closing, thank you to the office and nursing staff who helped Dr. Buchanan throughout my journey to provide me a satisfying experience – from scheduling, to arranging the surgical procedure at NW Specialty Hospital, to the post-surgical follow up visits – everything went smoothly.

* Many physicians are board certified in other medical specialties and often perform practice cosmetic surgery by completing cosmetic procedure continuing education classes – this wasn't sufficient to me. Though I'm sure they are competent, I didn't want to take any chance.