Your decision to have cosmetic or plastic surgery is one you will live with for the rest of your life, so it’s important to select an experienced surgeon who understands your goals.

Use these tips to find the right cosmetic or plastic surgeon for your aesthetic needs.

Choose a Certified Surgeon

Make sure you select a cosmetic or plastic surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. A cosmetic surgeon may also be certified by other specialty boards such as the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, but they must first and foremost have American Board of Plastic Surgery certification. This ensures they are held to the highest standards of education, training, safety and ethics.  

Consider the Surgeon's Experience

When it comes to procedures and surgeries to alter your appearance, you want a knowledgeable doctor with lots of experience. Ask how many patients the surgeon has treated with your specific condition or how frequently he or she performs the procedure you’re considering.

Ask to See Before and After Photos

Look at before and after photos of patients with a similar shape and structure to you. This can help you determine whether their results reflect how you want to look after surgery. Consider consulting multiple different surgeons and examining their photos.

Assess the Doctor's Communication Style

During your initial consultation, ask questions and discuss your aesthetic preferences. You want a doctor who listens to you, answers your questions in ways you can understand and respects your decisions. Your surgeon should be caring and you should feel comfortable talking to them about your medical history.

Ask Where Surgical Procedures are Performed

If you are considering surgery, check out the facility where it would occur. It should meet high standards for safety, and have life-saving equipment available at all times. The facility should be certified by the Joint Commission, the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care.

Make Sure Your Surgeon Has Hospital Privileges

Make sure a surgeon has hospital privileges to perform cosmetic or plastic surgery procedures in a hospital facility, even if the procedure is being performed in an outpatient facility. Hospitals provide another form of review to ensure that physicians have the necessary education and training to perform the procedure safely.

Ask About Follow-Up Care

Your surgeon should guide you through recovery. Ask about follow-up visits after surgery, how complications are handled and what the doctor’s policies are should surgical revisions be necessary.

Know What Your Insurance Covers

Cosmetic surgery is very rarely covered by health insurance, so you will likely pay the entire cost out-of-pocket. Some reconstructive plastic surgeries to fix issues such as congenital defects or severe burns are partially or completely covered by health insurance. In California, state law mandates that treatment for breast cancer include coverage for post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. Contact the surgeon’s office to verify acceptance of your particular plan.