One of the biggest keys to success when planning any plastic surgery procedure is to carefully pick the right plastic surgeon. To help you get started in your search, here are six must-haves to look for when selecting a plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck.
1. Credentials
The very first thing that you should look for when considering a plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck is board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This credential ensures that your plastic surgeon has completed rigorous schooling, training and residency programs and comes highly qualified to perform various plastic surgery procedures.
On top of board certification, it’s also important to make sure that your plastic surgeon has ample experience performing the specific procedure you want. So if that’s a tummy tuck, ask how many of these same procedures that particular plastic surgeon has done in the past.
2. Before and After Photos
One way to assess the experience level of your plastic surgeon and determine if he or she might be a good fit for your needs is to browse through before and after tummy tuck photos. While you can’t expect your body to look just like the ones in the photos, you can use before and after photos to give you an accurate depiction of the quality of results you can likely expect yourself.
3. Artistic Eye
Your plastic surgeon should also be able to listen to your needs and goals during your consultation and then create an individualized surgical plan for your tummy tuck. Ideally, you want to pick a plastic surgeon who has an artistic eye and who understands how to achieve an aesthetically pleasing finished look that remains in balance with your natural body proportions for the best tummy tuck results.
You should be able to gather just how artistic your plastic surgeon is from the before and after photos you see from his or her practice.
4. Ease of Communication
When you sit down to discuss your goals with your tummy tuck plastic surgeon, you feel capable of clearly communicating with him or her. You should also feel comfortable asking your plastic surgeon questions and voicing any concerns you might have.
Otherwise, you may have some trouble explaining exactly what you’re looking to get out of your procedure, which could hinder your results.
Remember that you’ll be working with your plastic surgeon before and after your tummy tuck, so make sure you are able to establish a good rapport from the get-go.
5. Friendliness of Staff Members
Another important factor to consider is whether or not you feel warm and welcomed the minute you walk into your plastic surgeon’s office. Take note of how you are treated by any staff member whom you encounter, both on the phone and in-person. Ask yourself:
- Were you greeted upon entry?
- Did staff members readily answer your questions?
- Was everyone kind to you, from your first phone call to your visit with the plastic surgeon?
- Do you feel that you could easily ask for guidance in the future from the staff and plastic surgeon?
6. Cleanliness and Organization of the Practice
Finally, note your general first impression of the cleanliness and organization of the office during your initial consultation. Does everything look clean and well taken care of? Is the waiting room comfortable and orderly? How about the consultation room or exam rooms?
Don’t be afraid to ask for a tour of the office, including the room where you surgery would take place, during your consultation to help you answer these types of questions.
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in hand and microsurgery. Dr. Campanile knows that making a lasting change to your appearance is a big decision. His calm, professional approach and deep caring for his patients set a tone that will help you feel confident and relaxed while reviewing your options and learning all about the procedures that can benefit you. Request a consultation today to meet with Dr. Campanile in person.
