subject: Auditioning Your Liposuction Surgeon [print this page] With more and more advancements in technology, medical procedures are becoming more straightforward and streamlined, and the risks and side effects are beginning to fly out the window. However, opting to get any surgery, but in this case cosmetic surgery, is still a risky business.
One of the best ways to minimize your risks in getting liposuction is screening and "auditioning" a number of surgeons before selecting one. In this article, we'll give you the know-how to ask your potential surgeons smart questions that will reveal a lot.
First, and kind of obviously, ask around with your friends and acquaintances for recommendations. Remember, though, to be wary of a recommendation from your secretary's best friend's cousin who loved her surgeon. First-hand reviews will definitely be the most desirable and reliable.
You can also search for a surgeon in your area online or through the yellow pages. Select a few, and call them, either to talk to them on the phone or to schedule an appointment to discuss a possible surgery. We recommend the latter.
Once in the office or on the phone, first ask what kind of doctor your prospective doctor is. Oftentimes, dermatologists will perform liposuction, but it is preferable to get a plastic surgeon.
Ask for their board certification. If they have it, this certification ensures that they went to a good medical school and completed a five-year residency in plastic surgery.
Another gold star you can look for is membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). They screen their members to ensure that they have completed five years' study in surgical procedures with two years dedicated especially to plastic surgery, that they are trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, that they adhere to a code of ethics, and that they receive updated training in all relevant fields.
However, to be a good surgeon, they don't necessarily have to belong to this society, but it's just an extra vote of confidence if they do.
Next, start asking the surgeon questions about their experience in liposuction. Ask them how many times they have performed the specific kind of surgery you are looking to get, if they have ever had and complications with that kind of surgery, and if they have any special training in that area.
Also, your surgeon should have privileges at an accredited hospital facility to perform the surgeries. Though you may opt to have the surgery done in an office-setting, still make sure that your surgeon has permission to perform surgeries at a reputable hospital. This is another requirement for membership in the ASPS, so if they are a member of that society, you can trust that they do.
You can ask your potential surgeons any other questions you might have about their background, potential risks, and details of the surgery you are considering, but just remember to include these basics while "auditioning" your liposuction doctor.
