Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) –
How to Find & Choose a Good Surgeon

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) statistics, 107,019 tummy tucks were performed in 2004. Most tummy tuck patients are happy with the results of their surgery; however, a tummy tuck is invasive plastic surgery that involves anesthesia, incisions, and, potentially, extensive muscle and skin manipulation.

Therefore, it is essential to find a plastic surgeon with solid medical training, considerable surgical skill and extensive plastic surgery experience to increase your chances of a successful tummy tuck surgery outcome. It is preferable that the doctor is board-certified, so you should learn how to choose a qualified plastic surgeon.

Why Should You Choose a Board-Certified Surgeon?

When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is highly recommended that you choose a board-certified surgeon. Certification indicates that the doctor successfully completed an approved educational program and met board certification requirements, including an examination to determine his or her ability to provide quality medical care.

Know what it means to be a board-certified plastic surgeon.

How Can You Verify Whether a Plastic Surgeon Is Certified by a Board?

To verify your plastic surgeon's board certification, use the certification verification tool offered by American Board of Medical Specialties. You will need to register for the free service. (The Board does not require to submit any additional information other than your first name and e-mail address. After registration, your password will be e-mailed to you for future use.)

Are All Board Certification Levels Equal?

Tummy tuck surgeons with the most training include plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Learn what what it takes to get certified by ABPS.

Unfortunately, board certification does not always guarantee a successful tummy tuck surgery outcome. The surgeon's overall capability depends on other factors such as frequency and complexity of tummy tuck surgeries, use of innovative techniques, and other factors.

Before making choosing a tummy tuck surgeon, try to gather as much information as possible about his or her capabilities and expertise. Speak to other patients who had their tummy tuck performed by the surgeon and take a look at before and after tummy tuck photographs to review results of previous tummy tuck surgeries.

What If Your Surgeon Is Not Certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery?

In this case, your doctor may be qualified to perform a tummy tuck. Get more information on what other board certifications entail and how they differ from the certification by ABPS.

What If Your Doctor Is a Member of a Plastic Surgery Association or Society?

Learn the difference between board certification and membership in a plastic surgery association or society.

What Are the Operating Facility Requirements

Remember that the facility where the surgery will be performed must meet certain quality standards and be accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). You can get acquainted with the standards and verify that an office or facility is accredited by the AAAASF by visiting their Surgery Facilities web page.

Plastic Surgeons For Other Procedures

Are you looking for a plastic surgeon for a different procedure? Check out other credible sites about breast surgeons, face lift surgeons, liposuction surgeons, and rhinoplasty surgeons.

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