subject: The Questions Your Plastic Surgeon Should Answer [print this page] People are often intimidated by others who in a position of authority or those with a higher education. While it is natural to show respect for an expert in a certain field, you don't need to abandon your sense of self when engaged in conversation with these people. When it comes to choosing your plastic surgeon, you should learn to assert yourself, and quickly. A fine line separates the good ones from the bad ones, and you need to use the tools at your disposal to make that distinction for yourself. An uncomfortable question or two is nothing compared to being subject to a butcher job you will be unsatisfied with for years. Here are some questions to ask potential doctors so you can make a good choice.
Are you board certified?
When you look for board certification in a doctor, you are looking for something very specific. You want them to be certified with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, also known as the ASPS. While not entirely necessary, having the answer to this question can at least give you a bit of insight into your doctor's general education and their level of experience. If they aren't certified, ask them why. You can determine a lot with questions like this and you can show the doctor that you aren't there to simply be fed whatever line they want to give you. Also, displaying a level of knowledge about a field will show them that they can talk to you without talking down to you. This makes a huge difference.
What experience do you have with this particular procedure?
Keep in mind that a plastic surgeon doesn't necessarily have a lot of experience with every type of operation. If they do liposuction primarily, they may have only done a few face lifts. Or vice versa. You want a doctor who specializes in the type of surgery you are planning to have done. You want them to not only know how to do the surgery, but to have the kind of skill and artful hand that only comes with a lot of experience.
May I see some results?
A good plastic surgeon will have a portfolio of photographs showing the work they have done. They should be proud to show you these pictures, as they should act as an enticement for you to have the procedure. If they are hesitant to show you any photographs, or only have one or two sets, this isn't such a good sign. You want to see a doctor who has a history of doing good work and has the pictures to prove it.
