The difference between good and great plastic surgery comes down to the experience and credentials of your plastic surgeon. With so many providers offering plastic surgery, it can be difficult to find the right one for you.
Here, Long Island plastic surgeon Dr. Lloyd Landsman explains what you should look for in a plastic surgeon.
Board Certification
The best indicator of a plastic surgeon’s credentials is board certification. Your plastic surgeon should be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Certification denotes that the plastic surgeon has the qualifications needed to perform your surgery. They have completed the necessary training and passed rigorous exams testing their knowledge and skill. If you meet a surgeon that offers plastic surgery but is certified by another medical board, they do not have the proper credentials to handle your treatment.
Experience
You need to find a surgeon that performs a lot of your requested procedure(s) on a regular basis, not someone that took a weekend course on the procedure. Experienced surgeons not only understand how to deliver great results, they know how to handle complications should they arise.
Membership to National and Local Plastic Surgery Organizations
Another indicator of a plastic surgeon’s qualifications is membership to organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and regional, state and local associations. These organizations have strict rules for admission and hold their members to high professional and ethical standards.
Hospital Privileges
Hospital privileges provide another layer of safety for patients choosing a plastic surgeon. To obtain hospital privileges, a surgeon’s training and credentials are carefully reviewed by the hospital review committee (usually comprised of other doctors). The committee looks for any malpractice history or other blemishes on their safety record before granting privileges.
Approach and Thoroughness in Consultation
Finally, finding a good “fit” is important. When you sit down with a surgeon in consultation, pay attention to how they approach your case.
- Do they listen to your desires and wishes, and answer all of your questions comprehensively?
- Are they thorough when they examine your problem area(s)?
- Do they explain what your requested treatment would entail in easy-to-understand language?
- Are they candid about the risks and potential complications associated with treatment?
- Do you have a good rapport with the surgeon?
The answers to these questions should indicate whether you have found the right surgeon.
Meet Dr. Lloyd Landsman
If you would like to discuss your personal plastic surgery needs and goals with our trusted board certified surgeon, Dr. Landsman invites you to make an appointment with him. Call or email us today to book a consult.
