Choosing Your Physician

A well-qualified experienced surgeon is most likely to produce the results you desire.

Here are five critical questions to ask.

Is the surgeon you are considering board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only plastic surgery board that is an approved member board of The American Board of Medical Specialties. The American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery are not approved member boards of The American Board of Medical Specialties. The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), a not-for-profit organization comprising 24 medical specialty boards, is the pre-eminent entity overseeing physician certification in the United States. ABMS is recognized by the key healthcare accreditation organizations as a primary source of board certification data on medical specialists for credentialing purposes. To verify this information, go to www.ABMS.org or Call 1-800-ASK-ABMS.

Is the surgeon an active member of a local hospital and a member of the Division of Plastic Surgery?

At Naples Community Hospital, the only Division of Plastic Surgery is made up of plastic surgeons who are board-certified/eligible by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Other surgeons doing plastic surgery must be members of their own division such as otolaryngology, oral surgery or dermatology.

Have you seen many examples of the surgeon’s work?

The only way to pass judgment on the single most important ability your surgeon must have – artistic ability – is to see at least a dozen un-retouched before and after photos of actual patients. You also need to meet some patients in person. If a surgeon does not provide this, it is a red flag. A plastic surgeon’s results are a combination of art, craft and skill that all come together with experience. A critical examination of many examples of a surgeon’s work is your best guidepost.

Is the surgeon skilled in the latest advanced cosmetic surgery procedures?

Specialized training and experience is needed to perform the more advanced cosmetic surgery procedures such as the endoscopic composite face lift, endoscopic mid-facelift, “scarless” facelift and ultrasonic liposuction. High-tech instruments are needed and precision is required. No matter how technically sound a surgeon is, if he is not using the latest techniques or does not possess a high level of artistic ability, he will not be able to achieve these results.

Have you and your surgeon developed rapport?

You should be comfortable with your surgeon and his staff. They will be working closely with you in the pre- and post-operative phases to ensure the highest quality of results. The staff is a reflection of the surgeon and the happiness of his patients. The staff at our plastic surgery Fort Myers / Naples practice provides an unparalleled level of highly individualized care.

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