Whatever your reason for considering plastic surgery, one thing you’ll likely encounter in your research is the term “board-certified”—as in, you should choose a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform your procedure. But what does board certified mean, and why is it so important?
Why It Matters
Before getting into the details about what it takes to become a board-certified plastic surgeon, it’s essential to understand why it’s so important. Think about what you do before hiring a contractor for a home improvement project. Besides interviewing 2 or 3 potential candidates, you’d check to ensure they have a contractor’s license and ask about their experience.
The same principle applies to plastic surgery, only with a bit more at stake than new kitchen counters and cabinets.
Being board-certified is a testament to a surgeon’s commitment to excellence. Think of it as a seal of approval from the highest authority in plastic surgery. When you choose a board-certified surgeon, you can rest assured knowing that you’re in capable hands.
How Does a Surgeon Become Certified?
Plastic surgeons undergo rigorous training and evaluation to become certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). There are other boards, but the ABPS is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Any physician with a medical license can perform cosmetic surgery and may call themselves board-certified if they’re certified by another board.
Certification by the ABPS first requires earning a medical degree and completing residency training in an accredited program. A surgeon must complete at least 6 years of residency, with 3 years devoted exclusively to plastic surgery. Additionally, surgeons need to pass comprehensive written exams to become certified. These exams cover everything from surgical techniques to patient safety protocols, ensuring certified surgeons have well-rounded knowledge and skills.
How To Check If a Plastic Surgeon Is Board Certified
You can check the status of a surgeon’s certification on the ABPS website. You can search using the surgeon’s name or the practice’s location. The board encourages surgeons to stay current with advanced surgical techniques by requiring re-certification every 10 years.
Board-Eligible vs Board-Certified
While searching for plastic surgeons, you may come across the phrase board eligible. This refers to a surgeon who has completed their residency training but has not yet passed the board certification exams. While board-eligible surgeons have the necessary training to perform plastic surgery, they have not yet undergone the additional scrutiny and evaluation required for board certification. Board-eligible surgeons are often very talented and skilled practitioners who simply haven’t had the opportunity to take the exams.
How To Choose a Plastic Surgeon
If you’re starting from scratch in your search for a plastic surgeon and live in a relatively large city or town, typing “board-certified plastic surgeons near me” into your phone is one way to start the process. Visit the websites of a few surgeons, view the before-and-after photos showing patients who underwent the same procedure you’re considering, and schedule consultations.
Reading reviews posted by patients on reputable websites, such as RealSelf and RealPatientRatings, is another valuable tool. When you meet with a surgeon at the consultation, bring a list of questions to ask. You should feel comfortable being honest with the surgeon and not feel rushed during the consultation. Be sure to notice how other practice members treat you from the moment you arrive. When you choose a surgeon, you’re choosing the whole practice.
Ultimately, choosing the right plastic surgeon is a profoundly personal decision. Board certification is just one factor to consider among many. It’s essential to do your research, ask plenty of questions, and trust your instincts. After all, this is your body we’re talking about—you shouldn’t settle for anything less than the best.
If you’re looking for a plastic surgeon in the Fort Worth, TX, area, you can request a consultation with me, Dr. Steven Camp, using the online form or by calling our office at (817) 228-4315. I am a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon specializing in breast enhancement, body contouring, and facial rejuvenation procedures.
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