Good Cosmetic Surgeon vs. Bad Cosmetic Surgeon

It is a fact all plastic surgeons are not created equal. Some are great, some are marginal and some are just plain horrible. Sifting through credentials and board certifications can often be a difficult task for the plastic surgery patient. I work with cosmetic / plastic surgeons everyday and I can tell you first hand that they are an interesting breed and no two surgeons are the same.

The first step is to be absolutely sure your surgeon has achieved board certification by the American board of plastic surgery, the only plastic surgery board that is recognized by the American board of medical specialties. Generally speaking you should be sure your surgeon is a member of the ASPS, as all members are American board certified.

Good cosmetic surgeons :

1. They spend time with their patients and don't cattle hurd them through the office.
2. Take time to understand the patients goals
3. Understand ethnic and cultural standards with regards to the body (all surgeries are not created equal)
4. Diligently explain and document surgery risks and recovery times
5. Continue their education and are up to date on the latest surgeries and procedural methods
6. They do not sell other surgeries, or perform risky unproven procedures
7. Require patients to take out complication insurance

Bad Cosmetic Surgeons :

1. Are in many cases not American board certified
2. Have a high volume of patients
3. Advertise procedures for a low cost (believe me you don't want a $4,000 boob job)
4. Office atmosphere is noticeably tense
5. Don't spend time with the patient or don't listen to their needs and true desires

To find a good cosmetic surgeon go to: www.R4MD.com