Steps to find a qualified plastic surgeon
This advice was also prepared by the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Where do you find the surgeons for your short list?
Your family doctor may be able to recommend one or more plastic surgeons who perform cosmetic surgery. If your doctor can, ask how many people he/she has referred and what feedback was received. Ask if the doctor would send a family member to this surgeon?
Friends. Have any of your friends had a procedure like the one you are considering? Ask him/her about it. This is useful background information.
Nurses. If you’re fortunate enough to know a nurse who works in an operating theatre during plastic/cosmetic surgery, you could get a well informed opinion on levels of competence.
Hospitals. Call an accredited hospital in your area and ask them for the names of plastic surgeons who operate in that hospital and perform the procedure you are considering.
The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons has an information service which can give you the names of member plastic surgeons in your area who perform the procedure you are interested in. Their phone number is 1300 367 446. They also have a web site which provides similar information. The web address is:
Advertising. You will find doctors advertising in the Yellow Pages and on the web. Obviously they would need to be checked out.
Checking doctors' credentials.
Do not be confused or mislead by numerous letters or credentials after the doctor’s name. They often do not indicate genuine qualifications or degrees. The only post-nominal that truly identifies your doctor as a completely trained surgeon is FRACS.
You shouldn't feel embarrassed about checking your potential surgeon’s credentials. Here are a few suggestions:
Has the doctor completed an accredited training programme in plastic surgery? This is a four year training course in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
Hospital privileges. Irrespective of where your surgery is going to be done, your surgeon should have privileges to perform that surgery in an accredited hospital in your area. You can double check with the hospital.
Experience. You should be satisfied that the doctor you choose is experienced and up-to-date in the procedure you’re considering. Ask how regularly the surgeon does this type of operation. A surgeon who specialises in breasts may not be the best option if you want a facelift.
Qualifications. Ask about the type of training your surgeon has done. Certificates are generally on display.
Consultation
It is advisable to talk to a few potential surgeons on your short list. Unfortunately you will normally have to pay for all these consultations. They give you the opportunity to talk to the doctor and ask about any issues and concerns you may have. Don’t be afraid to discuss fees and costs. It’s often a good idea to write questions down beforehand and come with a prepared list of questions. It is also a good idea to ask about the dangers and clearly understand them.
Selection
After consultations with a couple of surgeons, you should be in a position to make a decision on who you think is the best for you and the work you want done.
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