Your choice for a plastic surgeon is something you will live with for years, if not your entire life. There are hundreds of plastic surgeons available across the country, but how do you know if you will get the results you are looking for or if youa will just leave feeling worse than before? For prospective patients, it is important to educate yourself on what to look for in a trusted, well-practiced plastic surgeon.
Ask for Certifications
Many people rely on the state government to ensure that a doctor is adequately trained and certified to perform the surgeries offered at their clinic. What many people don’t realize is that any general surgeon can call himself a cosmetic surgeon and offer general cosmetic procedures. These doctors are not specifically certified in each procedure, therefore, they cannot offer any certainty that the job will be performed with a minimum standard of safety or quality.
A qualified, well-trusted Seattle plastic surgeon should be certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The Society ensures that a surgeon is specifically trained in the operations offered
at their practice. The ASPS is dedicated to creating industry-wide standards and training. Its very high standards provide patients peace of mind and the knowledge that their surgeon has been professionally certified and reviewed.
Background Check
Malpractice incidents are typically recorded on a Seattle plastic surgeon’s record and can be investigated by patients through the state’s medical board. Many state medical boards will list the incident and any disciplinary action taken.
You can also ask the Seattle plastic surgeon of your choice if he or she has hospital privileges. Even if you are having your procedure performed in an outpatient facility, it is worth asking because hospitals often perform background checks themselves. Dr. Rod Rohrich, former president of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says, “If they don’t have hospital privileges, that’s a huge red flag.”
Come Armed with Questions
It is always a good idea to come armed to a consultation with relevant questions to help you determine whether you feel comfortable with the qualifications of your chosen Seattle plastic surgeon. Here are a few standard questions to consider:
- Were you trained specifically in the field of plastic surgery?
- How many years of plastic surgery training have you had?
- How many procedures of this type have you performed?
- Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
- Where and how will you perform my procedure?
- How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
- What are the risks and complications associated with my procedure?
Top Seattle Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Salemy
Remember to try to remain objective about the information you glean from your consultation. When going in for your pre-surgical appointments it may help to bring a family member or friend to get another opinion.
For a local plastic surgeon in Seattle, consider Dr. Salemy, a world-renowned specialist in cosmetic surgery, possessing the highest caliber qualifications and certifications, as well as patient testimonials that support his work. Dr. Salemy is considered a premier specialist in the Seattle plastic surgery landscape and is a highly revered top doctor in the area.
Other Noteworthy Certifications Include:
The American Board of Plastic Surgery
UW Graduate Medical Education
Real Self: Top Doctor
American College of Surgeons
