The single most important decision you will make regarding cosmetic surgery is choosing the right surgeon. The following are some criteria to consider:

Is the physician certified by a member board of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)? The ABMS Boards of Dermatology*, Ophthalmology*, Otolaryngology* and Plastic Surgery* each require completion of residency programs that include training in plastic/cosmetic surgical procedures. Some patients may be surprised to learn that the pioneering efforts and expertise of dermatologists, otolaryngologists and ophthalmologists have led to the development of some of today's most advanced cosmetic surgery techniques and procedures.

*Some of these ABMS board certified specialists also choose to seek membership in the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, the only organization which tests knowledge and verifies experience exclusively in cosmetic surgery. In addition to prior ABMS board certification these Diplomates of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery have at least five years of cosmetic surgical experience in private practice in which 1,000 cosmetic surgical procedures have been successfully performed or have completed an American Board of Cosmetic Surgery approved fellowship program. They have also passed a two-day comprehensive written and oral examination and have been reviewed for professional and ethical fitness.

Board certification is a critical prerequisite in evaluating a cosmetic surgeon but should not be the sole criterion. Physicians who claim that only members of his/her specialty are qualified to perform cosmetic surgery may reflect an attitude that could deny you the best possible care. A serious consumer should take into account several other important factors including:

Does he/she specialize in the procedure(s) in which you are interested? How many procedures of this kind has he/she performed? Ask to see numerous photographs of his/her patients. Ask to meet and/or speak with patients.

Does the surgeon have any university faculty appointments and/or has the surgeon published articles in peer-reviewed medical journals and been invited to teach other physicians at surgical conferences?

Are procedures performed in a certified outpatient surgical center dedicated to aesthetic surgery? Is a certified anesthetist or anesthesiologist regularly present? Is the physician on staff at a nearby hospital?

Determine in advance how often you will see your physician following your procedure. The more often you are seen by your physician and his/her staff, the greater degree of security you will have in your recovery and the greater chances for ultimate success.

Your relationship with your surgeon determines a great deal about how comfortable you will feel about your decision - before, during, and after your procedure. Make sure you are able to express your needs and desires and will feel comfortable "working" with your surgeon to achieve your goals.

Remember, a surgical procedure may be performed technically correct and still not achieve what you consider an aesthetically pleasing result. It is important that you and your surgeon have a "meeting of the minds" before your procedure(s) regarding how you both define realistic success.