Tips to Research Background and Credentials of a Plastic Surgeon

It is not easy to choose among many surgeons to perform your desired surgery. There are many factors to take into consideration. Right from experience of a surgeon to his credentials, background, and costs, one needs to look into several things before making a decision. Unfortunately, credentials and background of a surgeon are the most overlooked points.

Here’s how to research background and credentials of a plastic surgeon:
   

State Medical License

Each state in the United States has a medical board. It is mandatory for a practicing physician to hold a license issued by the medical board of state in which they practice. These boards make sure that the members deliver quality and ethical services. They are also authorized to take action (corrective as well as disciplinary) against members. One must look up for state medical board. It is the easiest way to avail crucial info about surgeons you consider. State license of a surgeon informs about status of license and any public complaints or disciplinary actions in the past.

Board Certified

All doctors in the United States must be state board certified. There are 3 main organizations which jointly supervise board certification in the USL

- The certification of Medical Doctors (M.D.)
- Doctors of Osteopathy (D.O.)
Certifying Boards include American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), and American Osteopathic Association Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists (AOABOS), American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS), and American Board of Medical Specialties American Board of Plastic Surgery.

The largest of all is the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).

Society Memberships

Board certified plastic surgeons under the American Board of Plastic Surgery are potential candidates for joining memberships such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. They may also join the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Joining these renowned society memberships is a sign that the surgeon is reputed, qualified and experienced. These are nonprofit organizations that demand a specific profession to have recommendations from colleagues and nominations before awarding membership.

 They may even require that all members maintain certain standards like advertising or ethics.

Hospital Affiliation

Usually surgeries are performed at private surgery centers. However, if you are suggested or wish to get admitted to a hospital, make sure your choice of plastic surgeon determines the hospital you must go for. Look for the hospital where this surgeon admits privileges and then compare the facility with other hospitals in your region.