Dr. James Barber - Cosmetic Surgery Blog

Many cosmetic surgery procedures are considered major operations where you are put under general anesthesia. In these cases you are literally putting your life in the hands of your doctor. It is imperative that you choose a qualified physician you can trust. It is only reasonable that you should be able to ask questions to find out more about the doctors credentials. Make sure the surgeon answers all your questions thoroughly, completely, and honestly.

Experience
The most important aspect of the physician is the level of experience he or she has and how many cases the doctor has performed in their career. Ask these questions of your doctor:

• How long have you been in practice?
• May I see before and after photos?
• Have you ever had to do a revision on your own work?
• Do you often get repeat patients?
• May I talk to some of your patients?
• How many of my procedure have you performed?

Education

• Where did you go to school?
• How well did you do?
• What special lessons did you learn from your instructors about this procedure?
• How do you keep abreast of the latest developments in the field?
• What continuing education are you pursuing?

Types of training

• What was your medical specialty before becoming a cosmetic surgeon?
• Where did you conduct your residencies?
• Who did you work with there?
• What did you learn during your residencies?

Certifications

• Are you board certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons?
• How long have you been certified?
• To what professional organizations do you belong?
• Have you received any honors from your peers or professional organizations?

Philosophy

• Why did you become a plastic surgeon?
• What is the most rewarding part of being a plastic surgeon?
• What do you believe is the goal of plastic surgery?

As you visit with the doctor, you can find out more about specific procedures available to address your aesthetic goals. Information on expected recovery times and scarring should also be brought up prior to surgery. These types of conversations help reveal the doctor's underlying philosophy and ensure that he or she is someone with whom you are comfortable.

Facility

• Is your facility accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Plastic Surgery Facilities (847-949-6058), the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (847-676-9610), or the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (847-916-5600)?
• Do you have hospital privileges?
• Will I have an anesthetist or a doctor of anesthesiology if I have general anesthesia?
• Who may I contact if I have post-operative concerns after hours?

Remember that cosmetic surgery is a completely elective procedure. Do not rush into a potentially life-threatening situation with a doctor you do not trust. Take time to fully evaluate your plastic surgeon.