Plastic surgery is becoming more and more popular every year, and with its growing popularity comes a growing number of potential risks. It is essential to select a board-certified plastic surgeon when considering a cosmetic procedure. With a qualified plastic surgeon, you will feel confident and secure throughout the process knowing that your health and well-being are in good hands. But what are the factors you ought to consider? We give you what we feel are the most critical.
Credentials and Experience
The first and most crucial factor to consider is the surgeon’s qualifications. Verify that the surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Board certification is crucial since it shows that the individual has specialized training in plastic surgery. Additionally, check their experience level with the procedure you are interested in and ask about their track record with satisfied patients. And in case you’re wondering, Dr. Marc Wetherington is board certified by ABPS.
Hospital Privileges
Before selecting a plastic surgeon, investigate whether they have hospital privileges at a local hospital. Hospital privileges signify that the surgeon meets specific professional standards established by the hospital, assuring that the surgeon has demonstrated their expertise and met specific requirements. If the surgeon you are considering does not have hospital privileges, that’s a warning sign. Dr. Wetherington maintains privileges at Atrium Health-Floyd and Advent Health-Redmond in Rome, Georgia, as well as Advent Health-Gordon in Calhoun, Georgia.
Communication and Personal Connection
Excellent communication is essential when choosing a plastic surgeon. Schedule a consultation with the surgeon before committing to any procedure. Ask any questions or concerns you may have and ensure that you feel comfortable with their answers. Select a surgeon whom you feel understands your expectations and personalized needs.
Center Accreditation
The physical location where the procedure will take place should be accredited, either by a state-recognized accreditation agency, the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, or The Joint Commission. Ask the surgeon if their location is accredited and, if not, reconsider your options.
Patient Feedback and Testimonials
Finally, check the plastic surgeon’s patient feedback and testimonials. You can check reviews on the surgeon’s website and other online resources, such as RealSelf. Feedback from past patients provides insight into how the surgeon practices medicine.
Selecting the right plastic surgeon can be a tedious task, but it pays off to ensure you receive professional care. As a patient, you have the right to know if the surgeon is qualified, has hospital privileges, communicates transparently, works from an accredited facility, and has a track record of happy patients. Do your research, ask questions, and take the time to select the right plastic surgeon for you. The time and effort before the procedure can mean a lifetime of results and confidence in your choice.
