Finding a good surgeon for your tummy tuck is not as simple as choosing a name from the Yellow Pages. This is a procedure with potentially life-threatening risks, so you want to find someone who can get the job done safely and correctly. While there’s no “right” way for finding a plastic surgeon, there are some things you can do to ensure you choose a good one. Here are a few tips to help you on your search.
Check certifications.
You might think that it would be difficult for an unqualified plastic surgeon to open a practice, but unfortunately that’s not the case. This is why it’s so important to find a doctor that is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or an equivalent international organization. Membership in groups like these requires the successful completion of exams and plastic surgery residencies, which ensures that a surgeon is well-prepared to safely and effectively perform procedures like tummy tucks. Under no circumstances should you use a doctor who doesn’t have this accreditation.
Ask about hospital privileges.
Hospitals thoroughly review surgeons, including a background check, before granting them privileges in their facilities. This is just another assurance that they have the competence and skills to perform your tummy tuck procedure.
Look for recommendations.
If there are people you know and trust who have recently had a tummy tuck as well, they will probably be willing to talk about their surgeon and their experiences. While a personal recommendation shouldn’t replace researching a surgeon’s credentials, it can be a great jumping-off point in your quest to find a doctor for your tummy tuck.
Evaluate your compatibility.
Even if you find a qualified surgeon, you may not feel a particular affinity or connection to him or her on a more personal level. While you may not think that personal compatibility is particularly important when it comes to choosing a doctor, this couldn’t be further from the truth. A tummy tuck is a serious and invasive surgery, and it’s important that you trust the surgeon performing your procedure. You don’t necessarily have to become best friends with your surgeon, but there should at least be some good rapport between the two of you.
Compare prices.
Now, you don’t necessarily want to bargain hunt when you’re looking for a tummy tuck, but comparing prices among qualified surgeons may help you save some money. Prices can vary due to a number of factors, including location and notoriety of your doctor.
