You’ve decided you want to get cosmetic work done, and you’re excited for the ‘new you’ that’s going to emerge after. Great! So what’s the next step? Of course, it’s finding the right surgeon and practice for you. And what exactly should you look for in a plastic surgeon? Well, there are several factors that come into play, but the first one is to find out if the doctor you are considering is board certified.

But what does that mean?

Today, we are going to answer this often asked question. This article should help remove any fallacies that you may have encountered in your own search for the truth. So let’s get started!

What Does Being A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Really Mean?

Someone that has been board certified has put in the effort to become one of the best surgeons out of his or her peer group. To become a member of the board, you have to meet certain criteria that not all plastic surgeons possess.

The first thing that every board member must achieve is a degree from a board certified education program. In order to achieve a degree in their respective specialty, one must go through extensive testing and evaluations. Only then will they become a certified member of the board.

So How Do I Know If My Surgeon Is Board Certified?

Making sure your plastic surgeon is board certified is very important.  You will have peace of mind when you know the person that is going to perform has exceptional training.  It can really help you relax and get through the process much easier. The recommended method to find out if your specialist is on the list is to check the ASAPS database.  This is the only way to make sure that your doctor is a member.

So Why Should I Only Use A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon?

If you are looking for a highly skilled surgeon to do top notch work, then hiring a board certified member is your best option.  These certified doctors possess 3 to 5 years of basic surgery training as well as 2 to 3 years of specialized cosmetic surgery training, which means that they are highly qualified to perform many different types of procedures.

Because of their qualifications, these surgeons acquire hospital privileges that most doctors simply don’t have access to. Those who are not board certified are generally only allow to perform procedures in their own office. Certified members of the board are carefully evaluated by members of the hospital and are under higher scrutiny, and only the best are selected and allowed to work inside a hospital.  This means that if you go with a board certified plastic surgeon, you will be getting the best of the best when it comes to the field of plastic surgery. When choosing a surgeon, you should always look for one that has hospital privileges with a highly rated and accredited hospital.