How to Select a Cosmetic Facial Surgeon

Prior to having cosmetic surgery done, according to the Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery you should be alert to:

Identify types of doctors who do cosmetic facial surgery.

Determine which physicians to consult In your own community.

Their guidelines useful in making a final selection reflect their position. Since cosmetic surgery is elective, the person contemplating it needs to have plenty of time to investigate and weigh a decision. Rushing, without checking, invites disappointment.

One is well advised to consult a surgeon who is certified by an American

Board of Medical Specialists. Among those requiring training in plastic and reconstructive surgery before American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Board of Dermatology.

The board-certified surgeon may be either a generalist in plastic surgery or a specialist in his region of the body. Ask what certifications a doctor has as you shop for the one who is right for you.

Seek several names from the following sources, the Academy suggests names of several surgeons who specialize in the type of cosmetic facial surgery you are considering. If they don't know any, ask if they would inquire for you. The reputation of those doing good work gets around medical circles quickly. Medical wives who have had cosmetic surgery.

Friends, neighbors, relatives and people you know who have had this surgery. Ask them to talk about their experience. Take a look and judge for yourself about the results.

Hairdressers and cosmetologists. They see persons who have had cosmetic surgery.

Tips from the Academy on evaluating a surgeon:

A good surgeon takes a personal interest in a patient, his health and safety. She or he will not rush to sign you up for the operation. The surgeon will insist on a thorough medical history. The surgeon wants to be satisfied that you are physically and emotionally fit to undergo the operation.

You should expect the surgeon to patiently explain the operation and what you can expect while recovering. S/he will describe the procedure, discuss the anesthetic he will use. S/he will inform you of risks and limitations.

The surgeon you select should discuss his fees with you in advance, and give you straightforward -answers to questions. He will give no guarantee before surgery. He will not even Imply one with an offhand remark such as "You're going to be beautiful."

Good surgeons do not necessarily have to resort to self promotion. Their professional behavior and accomplishments are enough to inspire medical and public confidence.

You should doubt any surgeon who seems reluctant to answer questions, or evasive when he does. You should realize no surgeon can tell you exactly how you will look after an operation.

Here are some questions the Academy suggests you ask your surgeon:

What is your hospital residency training?

How much cosmetic facial! surgery did you do in training?

How many operations like the one I want do you perform each year?

How long have you been doing cosmetic plastic surgery?

Do you take photographs to document the before, during and after?

Do you plan the operation in advance and in what operate?

Will you personally perform the operation and supervise my postoperative care?

The Academy's consumer's guide to cosmetic facial surgery If you will consider your face as the precious asset it really is, you should not let cost be the most important factor in selecting a surgeon, prices are competitive in surgery, just as in other fields.

Charges range within a few hundred dollars, or less, depending on your area. With any service, surgery included, you get what you pay for. You should be suspicious if fees quoted seem unusually low.