Many patients begin their online research by looking up the “best plastic surgeon” in their area. At my Scottsdale practice, I always tell patients that it’s important to find a skilled, experienced doctor you can trust. But what does the title of “best” actually mean?
The idea of a “best surgeon” can mean many things to different people, but there are a few key guidelines that apply across the board. In this blog post, we’ll explore the qualities that make a good plastic surgeon so you can find a provider that you truly trust.
Professional Experience
When starting your plastic surgery research, you should find a surgeon with a wealth of experience and the credentials to back it up. Review your surgeon’s CV and take a look at their professional background. Keep an eye out for a few highlights, such as:
- Certification by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS)
- Completion of an aesthetic surgery fellowship
- Honors presented by other medical organizations
Most of this information can be found in the “about” or “staff” section of a doctor’s practice website. By knowing more about your surgeon, you can better guarantee safe, high-quality results.
Background in Your Procedures
Plastic surgery is a wide and diverse field. While some doctors are generalists and perform a variety of procedures, many choose to focus on a particular surgery. I personally specialize in facial plastic surgery and have performed thousands of facelifts and rhinoplasty procedures. Another doctor who generalizes in many different procedures wouldn’t perform facelifts nearly as often as I do.
To make sure your doctor has experience in your given procedure, you can ask how often they perform it in an average week, month, or year. You can also browse before-and-after photos to get an idea of the results you can expect.
A Personal Touch
Surgery can be a very personal journey. You want a doctor who will support you every step of the way. When searching for the “best” plastic surgeon, you need someone who will be a good partner throughout the process.
To find a doctor with an excellent bedside manner, consider browsing patient testimonials. You can find reviews on RealSelf, Yelp, or sometimes the practice’s own website. By hearing the experiences of other patients, you can gain a better idea of what to expect down the road. Choose a surgeon who creates a warm, trusting environment inside their plastic surgery office.
By following these tips and tricks, you should be able to find the “best” plastic surgeon in your area, whether you’re from Scottsdale, Phoenix, New York, or Los Angeles. If you have any other plastic surgery questions, please request a personal consultation online. You can also call our office at (480) 214-9955.
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