With so many cosmetic procedures accessible today, it may be intuitive to select the first surgeon you come across. A simple Google search for “plastic surgeons near me” will present anyone with dozens of options to choose from, each doctor with their own polished website advertising their myriad offerings. Although there are many excellent surgeons available, knowing yours before going under the knife can prove life-saving.
The Dangers of Not Knowing Your Plastic Surgeon
Those who decide to have a surgeon they haven’t investigated operate on them take a major risk; some doctors have malpractice lawsuits while others may have had patients die under their care. The city of Miami has had more patients die during cosmetic surgery than any other city.
Spa centers that promote cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections put clients’ lives at risk every day. Any aesthetic center should have a licensed medical director who is board-certified; injections can only be administered by a physician’s assistant who is being actively supervised by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, i.e. they must be in the room at the time of the injection.
Any spa or center that offers such procedures without licensed medical professionals is operating illegally; more worrisome, they’re collecting exuberant sums of money while jeopardizing their clients’ lives.
Anyone who is not licensed to give such procedures will not have the physiological knowledge necessary to predict risks and respond to emergency adverse reactions. Uncertified individuals may not know any of the details regarding treatment or how it could interact with a client’s existing medications or prior health conditions.
How to Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon
Find board-certified plastic surgeons in your area using the official search tool on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ website. This is the easiest way to ensure that any doctor you reach out to has the necessary licensure and experience to perform cosmetic procedures.
In addition, if you require specialized care, you should look for a surgeon who is experienced in your needs. For example, a general cosmetic surgeon is not the same as a reconstructive plastic surgeon. Investigating every doctor’s website and meeting them for a free consultation is the best way to ensure you find the right surgeon for you.