Choosing a surgeon for your cosmetic procedure is one of the most important steps when it comes to getting the beautiful, natural-looking results you want. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to sift through all the information presented to you and make a well-informed decision.
First, what’s the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon? For one, cosmetic surgeons focus solely on the specialty of cosmetic, or elective surgery, to enhance one’s appearance. Plastic surgeons might also be interested in procedures like breast reconstruction, hand surgery and burn repair surgery.
Secondly, plastic surgeons complete training through a post-graduate residency program, whereas cosmetic surgery training is primarily completed after residency training. Thus, cosmetic surgeons have chosen to focus on cosmetic procedures and receive extensive training for each one in which they are interested in performing.
So how do you pick the right cosmetic surgeon? Keep these five important tips in mind during your search.
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Check for Medical Schooling and Training
This information is usually available on the cosmetic surgeon’s website. Look for medical schooling, residency training and post-residency programs to ensure your cosmetic surgeon has the skill and expertise needed for a safe and effective procedure.
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Ask about Experience with the Procedure You Want
Your cosmetic surgeon should have extensive experience performing the procedure(s) you’re considering getting. For example, if you want breast implants, ask your surgeon how many breast augmentations he or she has performed in the past. You wouldn’t want to choose a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in facial procedures and has performed very few breast augmentations.
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Look at before and after Photos
Most cosmetic surgeons provide before and after photos right on their website, so you should be able to get a feel for their personal aesthetic and eye for detail. Look through these photos and make sure the overall aesthetic of the results appeals to you.
Be on the lookout for red flags in before and after photos like stark differences in lighting or posture in each photo and pictures that look like they were taken shortly after the procedure. If you’re not sure, ask when the photos were taken. You want to see results that are several months or even a year after surgery.
Ask to see more before and after photos during your consultation if there are only a few available online.
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Is the Staff Friendly and Welcoming?
Once you’ve narrowed down your search to one or two cosmetic surgeons, schedule a consultation with them both. It’s always good to get a few different opinions and then choose the one that seems to be the best fit for your individual needs.
When you go to visit the office for the first time, make note of how the staff treats you. Did they say hello to you when you walked in and offer to answer any questions you have? You should feel comfortable and welcomed.
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What Are the Office and Operating Room Like?
Pay attention to the small details during your consultation and office tour. Is the waiting room inviting and organized? Are the consult and exam rooms private and comfortable? You should also have the opportunity to step into the operating room and take a look around. Everything should be clean, organized and in order.
Dr. James Koehler at Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery provides today’s most popular cosmetic surgery and nonsurgical options. Choose from breast enhancement procedures such as breast augmentation, body sculpting procedures including liposuction and tummy tucks, and facial procedures such as facelifts, BOTOX® Cosmetic, and much more. We are dedicated to providing outstanding care and results. Come in for a visit and see our difference for yourself!
