When deciding to move forward with facial plastic surgery, it is imperative to choose the right surgeon. Patients are able to make wise decisions, when they have knowledge of their physician’s clinical background and their core surgical skills before their office visit. Facial plastic surgery is a huge decision and to have a strong and inspirational outlook toward their forthcoming cosmetic procedure, patients must have a smooth and expert experience from the office. In any case, by doing some essential homework ahead of time, a patient can make better sound decisions and receive undeniably more out of their initial doctor visit than those without any preparation.
There are a large number of facial plastic specialists and all will vow to furnish high quality care. While all might be able to provide good quality care, they may not be a solid match with the patient’s necessities and character. Therefore, it is important that the patient has knowledge of the qualifications that a facial plastic surgeon should possess. Only then will they know who is “right” for them, when meeting for their initial consultation. The following is a list of the qualifications a facial plastic surgeon should possess, when searching for the right one.
Qualifications of a Facial Plastic Surgeon
They are Board Certified in Facial Plastic Surgery
A facial plastic surgeon should be board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and American Board of Otolaryngology (Head & Neck Surgery). Board certification, as a facial plastic surgeon, means they went through a rigorous process, to ensure patient safety and the handling of emergencies. During training, they underwent countless hours of specialized training, in their field of interest. On top of that, they are required to complete numerous facial plastic surgery procedures. During this tedious training process, they gain technical skills as well as learn aesthetic judgement. This is essential to provide the best results and care. In addition to board certification, they are a member of the well-respected American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This signifies they are well-trained and highly qualified to do their job (1, 2).
Additional Training on New Technology
As new technology develops, so do facial plastic surgery procedures. Facial plastic surgeons actively pursue opportunities to advance their training. This ensures they are trained in the latest surgical techniques and procedure options. At the same time, they know when basic techniques are most appropriate.It is useful to take a look at their website, to determine if they have received additional training. Memberships in facial plastic surgery societies, products that relate to specific procedures, and active involvement in ongoing procedural education are clues that they pursue additional training. Other clues include positions in advisory boards, publications, and certification in use of new technology (2, 3, 4).
They Should Have Some Artistry
Facial plastic surgeons reconstruct and make improvements to the head, neck, and face of patients. Because every person’s face is unique and different, they should be able to customize their treatment to the patient’s situation and needs. They should also have the skill and ability to produce harmony, symmetry, and balance, when making facial improvements. Furthermore, they should have a gallery of before and after pictures, to show samples of past results. When patients look at the gallery of photos, they should keep themselves in mind. Additionally, they should zero in on photos of patients who are of similar age, skin type, face shape, etc. This permits them to be more certain that they will receive similar astounding outcomes. Patient testimonials, case studies, and additional pictures are other ways facial plastic surgeons showcase their work (1, 3, 4).
They Specialize in Facial Plastic Surgery
A facial plastic surgeon specializes in techniques that cosmetically upgrade or primarily remake parts of the face. This includes birth defects, cosmetic defects, facial paralysis, nasal deformities, among others. At the initial consultation, the patient’s clinical history is evaluated. Treatment choices are also provided, to address appearance goals or deformities in the face. They also provide treatment alternatives for any head and neck deformities or dissatisfactions, such as hair loss, ear conditions, and excess weight in the neck. They can provide these additional treatment alternatives, since they have received training in the head and neck as well (2).
It is imperative to choose the right facial plastic surgeon who provides recommendations about treatment options. This is necessary, since the results of treatment can either negatively or positively impact the patient’s emotional well-being. To avoid the risk of costly revisions, thoroughly researching the proper facial plastic surgeon is essential (1,2, 5).
They Have Facility Accreditation
A variety of facial plastic surgeries are completed at surgery clinics or outpatient ambulatory surgery centers in plastic surgeon’s offices. The facilities are accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery, which hold them to strict accreditation standards. This ensures patients receive high quality patient care. Additionally, they also ensure precautionary and safety measures are taken. Therefore, when patients search for a facial plastic surgeon, they should make sure the facility is accredited (2).
They Openly Communicate
Effective two-way communication, with a facial plastic surgeon, is essential for successful communication. Also, the way in which they convey information to the patient is just as significant as the communication being imparted. A facial plastic surgeon can communicate effectively about treatment options available. They also provide the patients the freedom to express their wants, expectations, and needs. Additionally, they allow patients to ask questions and they provide effective answers. More importantly, facial plastic surgeons are open and honest about any risk involved (2, 4, 5).
Looking for a Qualified Facial Plastic Surgeon?
If you are seeking a facial plastic surgeon, with all of the above mentioned qualifications, contact a qualified facial plastic surgeon in Princeton NJ. He will utilize his expertise, to ensure you receive your desired results. His office is very inviting and his staff exhibit warmth and patience. This will help ensure you have a positive and smooth journey.
Resources:
1.Alamri, A. A., AlJehani, R., Alnefaie, M. N., Moshref, S., & Fida, A. R. (2019). Perception and Knowledge of Facial Plastic Surgery Among Health Care Professionals at Tertiary Care Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Cross Sectional Study. Materia socio-medica, 31(2), 125–129. https://doi.org/10.5455/msm.2019.31.125-129. Retrieved from: Perception and Knowledge of Facial Plastic Surgery Among Health Care Professionals at Tertiary Care Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Cross Sectional Study. (nih.gov).
2.American Society of Plastic Surgeons (2020). Retrieved from: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (plasticsurgery.org).
3.Chuang J, Barnes C, Wong BJF. Overview of Facial Plastic Surgery and Current Developments. Surg J (N Y). 2016 Feb 4;2(1):e17-e28. doi: 10.1055/s-0036-1572360. Retrieved from: Overview of Facial Plastic Surgery and Current Developments – PubMed (nih.gov).
4.Holland, K (2017). Fat, Face, and Facebook: The Latest Trends in Plastic Surgery. Healthline. Retrieved from: Plastic Surgery: The Latest Trends (healthline.com).
5.Sethi N; MRCS DOHNS. Ethics and the facial plastic surgeon. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Sep;273(9):2323-7. doi: 10.1007/s00405-015-3745-z. Retrieved from: Ethics and the facial plastic surgeon – PubMed (nih.gov).