Whether seeking a subtle appearance enhancement, more proportionate dimensions or better symmetry of the facial features, the right cosmetic surgeon can offer excellent results to men and women in search of an image boost. Cosmetic surgery is dedicated to improving the aesthetics of the face or body, and a board-certified cosmetic surgeon blends their extensive training and experience with a carefully honed technique to ensure the best outcome.Because cosmetic surgery is an investment in yourself, you should do a bit of research to help you find the cosmetic surgeon who’s the best match for you. This means learning about a prospective cosmetic surgeon’s training, credentials and experience, as well as evaluating other factors before you proceed with your cosmetic surgery.
To request a consultation with one of our skilled cosmetic surgeons, contact us online today.
Board Certification
The most important factor in helping to select a top cosmetic surgeon is ensuring that they are certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Any licensed physician can advertise themselves as a cosmetic surgeon, but that doesn’t mean that they have the requisite training, expertise or board certification.
Learn more: What to Look for in Cosmetic Surgery Training Credentials
A cosmetic surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery has completed an extensive residency program and post-residency fellowship, both of which comprehensively focus on cosmetic surgery procedures of the face, breasts and body.
Learn more: Becoming a Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon
Cosmetic Surgery vs. Plastic Surgery
It’s a common mistake to think that plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons have the same qualifications, but in fact their training can differ significantly. For instance, a plastic surgeon isn’t required to study cosmetic surgery nearly as extensively as a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, and may very well lack experience and training in a number of key cosmetic surgery procedures.
Of all the medical specialties, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon has the most expertise in cosmetic surgery procedures. In order to receive board certification, a cosmetic surgeon must perform at least 300 cosmetic surgery procedures.
Learn more: Plastic Surgery vs. Cosmetic Surgery
Experience with Your Cosmetic Procedure
There’s a wide range of cosmetic surgery procedures, and each cosmetic surgery focus requires a special set of skills. A breast augmentation surgery, for example, involves soft tissue and glandular tissue.
You should choose a cosmetic surgeon who has considerable experience performing the cosmetic procedure that you’d like. Asking specific questions can help you evaluate a prospective cosmetic surgeon’s experience:
- How often do you perform this procedure?
- How extensive was your training in this procedure?
- How long have you been offering this procedure?
Compelling Results
Aesthetics are deeply subjective, and you want to make sure that your cosmetic surgeon shares your aesthetic sense. Board certification and experience are certainly very important, but it’s equally vital that you find a cosmetic surgeon who has the same vision for your results that you do.
As you view the photo gallery of your prospective cosmetic surgeon’s patients, evaluate the final results:
- If you’re considering a facial procedure, find photos of people around your age with a similar facial structure and the same cosmetic concerns.
- For breast enhancement, search for women who have a similar torso and breast shape.
- For body contouring procedures, look for photos of people who have a similar body shape to you.
Before and after photos that are aesthetically appealing are a good indicator that your cosmetic surgeon can offer you excellent final results.
Good Rapport
Cosmetic surgery may be elective, but it’s still surgery, and it will affect you emotionally as well as physically. Because your cosmetic surgeon will be working closely with you both before and after your procedure, you should choose a cosmetic surgeon who helps you feel comfortable.
Having a trusting relationship with your cosmetic surgeon doesn’t just put you at ease, it also helps cement your safety. By openly communicating any concerns you have, as well as being completely honest about your medical history, you’re giving your cosmetic surgeon the information they need to help make your cosmetic surgery a success.
At Castellano Cosmetic Surgery, we pride ourselves in upholding the highest standards in the field of cosmetic surgery. Our surgeons are dedicated to offering men and women the utmost satisfaction in their cosmetic surgery experience.
To learn more about the benefits of plastic surgery and the importance of choosing a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, please request a consultation or call our Tampa-St. Petersburg cosmetic surgery practice at 813-872-6093 today.
Author: Dr. Joseph Castellano
Dr. Joseph Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. After medical school and residency, Dr. Castellano returned home and has opened a practice in Tampa, Florida focusing on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. He is a member of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, and American Medical Association
