The Importance of Choosing a Board-Certified Bellevue Plastic Surgeon
If you’re considering cosmetic surgery, it’s crucial to find a surgeon who is board certified. You can ask your friends and family, call hospitals, or use online search tools.
Elective plastic surgery can be life-changing, so you should ensure the surgeon is qualified for the procedure(s) you seek.
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Qualifications
Many people are surprised that licensed medical doctors can perform plastic surgery and call themselves “plastic surgeons.” These doctors appear in the yellow pages under various specialties and are often advertised as specialists. However, these physicians still need to complete a formal residency in plastic surgery.
The field of cosmetic plastic surgery requires a high level of skill and a considerable measure of artistic perception. Therefore, choosing a Bellevue plastic surgeon who understands facial anatomy and how it relates to cosmetic enhancement is vital.
Reputation
The letters FACS (Fellow, American College of Surgeons) after a surgeon’s name signify that the country’s oldest and most prestigious surgical association has thoroughly examined the surgeon’s education, training, professional credentials, surgical ability, and ethical conduct. Surgeons must pass written and oral examinations and meet specific practice requirements to earn this distinction.
When searching for a plastic surgeon, you should look for surgeons with the letters FACS after their names. It means they’ve surpassed the strict requirements of the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
The ABPS is not always associated with doctors who claim to be board certified. It is crucial to keep this in mind. Many doctors use the term “board certified” when they have received certification from a non-ABPS medical board. It is critical to find out which board they belong to before deciding.
Experience
Many medical practitioners claim to be plastic surgeons in the yellow pages, but they still need to complete a residency in the field or pass rigorous examinations. The American Board of Medical Specialties oversees 24 sub-specialty boards, and only those who have met the board’s strict educational requirements can call themselves plastic surgeons.
While insurance often covers reconstructive plastic surgery, cosmetic procedures are usually not. Because the techniques used in reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery have a close relationship, choosing a Bellevue plastic surgeon who is double-board certified in both plastic and cosmetic surgery is crucial.
Safety
Board certification demonstrates that a surgeon has been carefully examined and has met specific standards in terms of their training. It creates a higher level of accountability and ensures that the doctor is current on all the latest procedures and techniques.
Another benefit of choosing a surgeon who is board certified is that they have the experience to handle any complications that might occur during or after surgery. Even the most experienced surgeons encounter problems from time to time, but they are trained in how to handle them.
Whether you are interested in getting a facelift, rhinoplasty, or any other facial procedure, choose a double-board-certified Bellevue plastic surgeon to perform the surgery. It is one of the best ways to guarantee your safety and ensure you get the desired results. Most doctors display their credentials on their websites and offices, but if they do not, you can always ask for proof of their board certification.
