Qualifications – Your doctor holds the appropriate ABMS board certification and is a member in good standing of key professional societies. The medical facilities selected by the doctor are fully accredited, and a qualified medical professional only administers anesthesia.
Privileges – Your doctor has hospital privileges to perform the procedure at a local, accredited hospital. Even though your procedure may be performed at a fully accredited freestanding or office-based surgical center, it is best to confirm that your doctor meets the standards to perform the same procedure in the hospital setting.
Professionalism – Your doctor has been listening to you and addressing your goals and concerns. You have been offered solutions that you understand. The supporting staff treats you with respect and dignity. Everything is clear, concise, organized, and attentive.
Checking records – You have checked with your state medical board that the doctor is licensed to practice in the state, and there are no prior or pending actions against the doctor. If there are any actions listed, make sure they are not related to real negligence jeopardizing the status of the doctor’s medical license.
Proof – Your doctor has performed the procedure you are choosing many times in the recent past and had photo documentation of actual patients and results achieved.
Information – The doctor and supporting staff have given you all of the information needed to make an informed choice. This includes informed consent documents to sign.
Health – Your doctor requires a health screening or evaluation prior to surgery. Any physical or emotional health conditions are addressed, specifically how these may influence your cosmetic plastic surgery. This includes information on the importance of not smoking at least four weeks prior to surgery.
Cost – You accept the defined cost of surgery, including the variable costs of operating room time, anesthesia, and any unexpected events. The best possible care and outcome do not come from the most inexpensive cost.
Specialization – Your doctor only practices in the area of specialization directly related to his or her ABMS certification.