Plastic surgery is real surgery. Yet, any licensed physician can claim to be a cosmetic surgeon. It’s important to know that getting plastic surgery is risky if you are in the wrong hands or aren’t fit for surgery.
We’re here to help you understand your plastic surgery risks, so you make safer choices.
Safety Considerations:
- “Cosmetic” doesn’t always mean qualified. “Aesthetic” is the new standard in plastic surgery. When you choose an aesthetic plastic surgeon who is a member of The Aesthetic Society, you can rest assured your surgeon has the highest level of qualifications. (see how to choose a plastic surgeon and find a surgeon)
- Your health matters. Smoking, obesity, and overall poor health can increase your surgery risks and negatively impact your outcome. Be sure to check with your aesthetic plastic surgeon to confirm whether you are a qualified candidate for surgery. It’s important you understand any specific lifestyle changes you need to make or any precautions you need to take to help minimize your risks.
- Different procedures have varying levels of risk. Not all procedures are the same. Some more invasive procedures or newer procedures can come with higher risks. Be sure you understand the specific risks associated with the procedure you plan to undergo upfront.
- You may have complications. You can minimize your chances of complications by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon and following your surgeon’s preoperative and postoperative care instructions.
How will I know if a surgeon meets the highest standards for education, experience, and ethics?
Choosing an aesthetic surgeon who’s a member of The Aesthetic Society is the first step to ensuring that your plastic surgery is safe plastic surgery, with quality care and outcomes. Members of The Aesthetic Society are board-certified by accredited boards, operate out of accredited facilities and follow a strict code of ethics. They go beyond what’s required, are committed to continued education, and have access to the latest training, tools, and techniques so they can perform the most cutting-edge and innovative aesthetic procedures safely. To find a surgeon near you, see find a surgeon.
Helpful Resources:
- The Aesthetic Society: 1-562-799-2356 https://www.theaestheticsociety.org (explore patient resources & find verified surgeons)
- American Board of Plastic Surgery: 1-215-587-9322 http://www.abplasticsurgery.org (verify a surgeon’s board-certification in the US)
- American Board of Medical Specialties: 1-866-275-2267 or http://www.abms.org (verify a surgeon’s certification in any recognized medical specialty)
- Federation of State Medical Boards: 1-817-868-4000 or http://www.fsmb.org (verify a surgeon’s medical license and check for disciplinary action)
- American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities: 1-847-949-6058 or http://www.aaaasf.org (verify surgical facility accreditation meets nationally recognized standards)
- Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care: 1-847-853-6060 or http://www.aaahc.org (verify surgical facility accreditation meets nationally recognized standards)
- Joint Commission for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations: 1-630-792-5000 or http://www.jcaho.org (verify surgical facility accreditation meets nationally recognized standards)