What Makes ASPS Members Uniquely Qualified to Perform Plastic Surgery? The popularity of plastic surgery is soaring and more doctors are trying to meet the demand for this specialty that has become an integral part of mainstream medicine. Any licensed physician can call himself or herself a cosmetic surgeon, so the importance of finding a properly trained and certified provider is paramount. Choosing a doctor who's a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons® (ASPS®) is the first step in ensuring quality care and outcomes. ASPS Member Surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery®, which is the only board dedicated to plastic surgery of the face and entire body. Breast enhancement, body contouring, liposuction, facial contouring, and nose surgery are among the most popular procedures performed by ASPS Member Surgeons. ASPS Member Surgeons also use reconstructive procedures to restore a more natural look and function in cases where the patient has been compromised by disease, accident or disfigurement. To be an ASPS Member Surgeon, a physician must meet these rigid requirements: • Board certified in plastic surgery by the ABPS • Graduate from an accredited medical school • Complete a combination of at least five years of general surgery and plastic surgery residency training • Pass comprehensive oral and written exams • Operate only in accredited medical facilities • Adhere to a strict code of ethics • Fulfill continuing medical education requirements, including standards and innovations in patient safety To make sure your surgeon has these outstanding qualifications, look for the ASPS logo!     What can I Expect? Before you have plastic surgery you should meet with your ASPS Member Surgeon® for a consultation. During the consultation discuss your goals. Your surgeon will examine you and advise the best procedure to achieve your desired results.

What can I expect from my Plastic Surgeon? Your Plastic Surgeon should • Answer all your questions thoroughly and clearly • Ask about your thoughts on recommended treatment • Offer alternatives, where appropriate, without pressuring you to consider unneeded or additional procedures • Welcome questions about the procedure, his or her professional qualifications, experience, costs, and payment policies • Make clear the risks of surgery and possible outcomes • Give information about the procedure • Leave the final decision to you STEP 1: Questions to Ask When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon 1. Are you an ASPS Member Surgeon? (If he or she answers "yes," you can rest assured that your surgeon is board certified in plastic surgery, has hospital privileges and only performs surgery in accredited facilities.) 2. Are you board-certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada? 3. Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? If so, at which hospitals? 4. Is the surgical facility accredited? 5. How many procedures of this type have you performed?   STEP 2: Questions to Ask Your ASPS Member Surgeon It's important to talk to your ASPS Member Surgeon about your goals and treatment. Feel confident asking about your doctor's credentials, experience, outcomes or safety record. It is your body, your safety and your life. 1. Am I a good candidate for this procedure? 2. What will be expected of me to get optimal results? 3. What are the risks involved with my procedure? 4. How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery? 5. Will I need to take time off work? If so, how long?