Plastic surgery is booming in the United States, with more people than ever turning to surgical and non-surgical enhancements to refine their appearance. But with the growing popularity of cosmetic procedures comes an overwhelming number of choices—who should perform your surgery, what qualifications matter, and how do you ensure you’re making the best decision for your health and aesthetic goals?
Just like choosing the right candidate in an election, selecting the right plastic surgeon requires careful consideration, research, and an understanding of credentials, character, and results. In this blog, we’ll break down the key factors you should evaluate when selecting a plastic surgeon, what qualifications truly matter, and how to avoid the dangerous trap of underqualified practitioners.
How the Rise of Plastic Surgery Mirrors the Voting Process
Choosing a plastic surgeon is similar to selecting a political leader—both involve putting your trust (and in some cases, your well-being) in someone else’s hands.
🔹 You must evaluate their qualifications—Do they have the right training and certifications?
🔹 You must assess their character—Are they ethical, honest, and focused on patient safety?
🔹 You must research their track record—Do they have successful outcomes and satisfied patients?
Just like making an informed vote in an election, choosing a plastic surgeon isn’t a decision you should take lightly. So, let’s break down what makes a qualified plastic surgeon and how you can protect yourself from untrained practitioners posing as experts.
Step 1: Understanding the Qualifications of a Plastic Surgeon
Not all doctors performing plastic surgery are board-certified plastic surgeons. Some OB/GYNs, general surgeons, or dermatologists take short cosmetic training courses and start performing aesthetic procedures without formal plastic surgery training.
So, how do you know if your surgeon is actually qualified?
✅ A qualified plastic surgeon must complete medical school at an accredited institution.
✅ They may have trained in the U.S. or at a recognized international school.
🚩 Red Flag: If a doctor calls themselves a “cosmetic surgeon” but does not have formal medical training, run the other way.
✅ Plastic surgeons must first complete a core surgical residency in fields like:
✔️ General Surgery (most common path)
✔️ ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat Surgery)
✔️ Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (if dual MD/DDS degree)
✔️ Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Urology (less common but possible paths)
🚩 Red Flag: If a doctor claims to be a plastic surgeon but never trained in a core surgical specialty, they lack the foundation necessary for safe surgery.
✅ After their core surgical training, they must complete an additional 2-3 years of specialized training in plastic & reconstructive surgery.
Plastic surgery training includes:
✔️ Cosmetic procedures (facelifts, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tucks, etc.)
✔️ Reconstructive procedures (breast reconstruction, burn treatment, trauma repair, skin cancer reconstruction, etc.)
✔️ Microsurgery, wound healing, and advanced surgical techniques
🚩 Red Flag: If a surgeon did not complete an accredited plastic surgery residency, they are not a true plastic surgeon.
✅ The most important qualification a plastic surgeon should have is board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
Why is this important?
✔️ It ensures the surgeon has completed the highest level of training.
✔️ They have passed rigorous written and oral exams.
✔️ They follow strict safety and ethical guidelines.
🚨 Warning: Some surgeons may be certified by the “American Board of Cosmetic Surgery”—this is NOT recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Only ABPS certification matters.
💡 How to Check Board Certification: Visit www.abplasticsurgery.org and search for your surgeon’s name.
Step 2: Assessing Character and Ethics
Even a well-trained surgeon must have strong ethics and integrity. Before choosing a surgeon, research their history and reputation.
✅ Check for Malpractice Cases – Look up any lawsuits or disciplinary actions against them.
✅ Read Patient Reviews – Look for consistent positive outcomes and good bedside manner.
✅ Observe Their Communication – Are they honest about risks, realistic about results, and patient-focused?
🚩 Red Flags to Watch For:
❌ A surgeon who guarantees results (no surgery is guaranteed).
❌ A doctor who rushes you into surgery without answering questions.
❌ A clinic that does not allow you to meet the surgeon before the procedure.
Character determines destiny. Choose a plastic surgeon who values safety, honesty, and ethical patient care.
Step 3: Avoiding Unqualified “Cosmetic Surgeons”
With the rise of social media, many unqualified doctors are marketing themselves as experts in plastic surgery. Be cautious of:
🚨 OB/GYNs, Dentists, or General Practitioners performing liposuction and BBLs.
🚨 “Cosmetic surgeons” who only did a 6-month fellowship instead of a full residency.
🚨 Doctors who perform surgery in unaccredited facilities.
The safest choice? A board-certified plastic surgeon who operates in a fully accredited surgical center or hospital.
Step 4: Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Procedure
Certain procedures require specific expertise. Here’s a quick guide:
🔹 Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, Tummy Tuck? – See a board-certified plastic surgeon.
🔹 Facelift, Eyelid Lift, Rhinoplasty? – A plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon is best.
🔹 Reconstructive Surgery (Burns, Trauma, Breast Reconstruction)? – Only a plastic surgeon can perform these.
🚨 Never let a “cosmetic surgeon” without proper plastic surgery training operate on you!
Final Thoughts: Make the Right Choice
Plastic surgery is a life-changing decision. Just like choosing a leader, selecting the right plastic surgeon requires careful research, scrutiny, and high standards.
✔️ Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS-certified).
✔️ Verify their experience in your procedure.
✔️ Assess their ethics and history.
✔️ Avoid unqualified “cosmetic surgeons”.
If you’re considering plastic surgery, Dr. Earl Stephenson, Jr. is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
📞 Call: 770-466-4700
📧 Email: concierge@esjaesthetics.com
🌍 Website: www.esjaesthetics.com
💡 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! 💡
#PlasticSurgery #BoardCertifiedSurgeon #CosmeticSurgery #PatientSafety #AestheticMedicine #DrStephenson #ESJAesthetics
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