One of the most essential things you should do when you’re thinking of getting high BMI plastic surgery is choosing a qualified plastic surgeon.
But what does it really mean to be qualified? Is board certification enough?
To make things easy for you, here are the credentials you need to check when you’re talking to potential plastic surgeons.
ABPS Board Certification
The most crucial credential for any plastic surgeon is board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
This certification ensures that your surgeon has completed at least six years of surgical training after medical school, including a minimum of three years dedicated to plastic surgery residency.
ABPS certification requires passing rigorous written and oral exams that thoroughly evaluate a surgeon’s knowledge and skills in plastic surgery procedures and patient safety protocols.
Fellowship Training
Many plastic surgeons choose to pursue additional advanced training through a post-residency fellowship.
For patients interested in body contouring procedures like tummy tucks or liposuction after major weight loss, it’s best to seek out a surgeon who has completed a fellowship focused specifically on body contouring surgery.
This specialized training provides surgeons with techniques tailored to the unique needs of patients with higher BMIs.
Memberships in Professional Organizations
Membership in reputable plastic surgery organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) signals a surgeon’s commitment to adhering to the highest standards of safety, ethics, and continuous education in the specialty.
ASPS members must operate in accredited or state-licensed surgical facilities and complete ongoing training each year.
Another membership to take note of is from the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This indicates your surgeon is a Fellow with a “FACS” designation after their name, meaning they passed a rigorous evaluation that measures their education, training, ethics, surgical competence, and other professional qualifications.
Surgical Experience
While a surgeon’s credentials are important, their actual hands-on experience in the operating room can be just as valuable, if not more so.
For patients with higher BMIs considering plastic surgery, it’s wise to choose a surgeon who has ample experience performing the desired procedures on patients with similar body types.
Reviewing before-and-after photos of the surgeon’s own cases can give you confidence in their ability to deliver excellent results for your specific needs.
Other Important Credentials
While ABPS certification is the gold standard, there are other noteworthy credentials that demonstrate a plastic surgeon’s expertise.
Surgeons who have received their training from prestigious institutions or served on university surgical faculties have an educational pedigree that inspires confidence.
Publication of research in peer-reviewed medical journals or textbook chapters further underscores their leadership in advancing the field.
Ultimately, the key credentials that matter most are those that prioritize patient safety, surgical skill, and ethical care above all else.