Lost the weight? Need to lose the skin?
Choosing the plastic surgeon to help you on the next step of your journey is a very important decision. Here are some quick guidelines from the ASPS - the American Society of Plastic Surgeons - to help you find a surgeon with the best qualifications. For more information about plastic surgery options and to find a surgeon in your area, visit the Plastic Surgery Forum and try our surgeon search tool.
Choose a surgeon you can trust.
Anyone with a medical degree can claim to be qualified to perform cosmetic procedures.
The first and most important step before you undertake any procedure is selecting a qualified plastic surgeon you can trust. Choose a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery or an ASPS Member Surgeon.
Members of these organizations:
- Are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery® or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada®
- Complete at least five years of surgical training following medical school, with a minimum of two years of plastic surgery residency training
- Successfully pass rigorous written and oral examinations administered by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
- Complete continuing medical education, including patient safety training each year
- Perform surgery in accredited, state-licensed, or Medicare-certified surgical facilities
- Adhere to a strict code of ethics
