How to choose a facial plastic surgeon

Choosing a surgeon for facial plastic surgery can be a very difficult process.  The internet has afforded the patient a myriad of choice to find a surgeon. However the patient is often confronted with an overwhelming amount of information. It may be difficult to filter conflicting reports and make a decision. A surgeon’s website may post a myriad of qualifications, beautiful before/after photos and great testimonials.  These can all be misleading.  How do I know what to believe and choose the best surgeon to perform my procedure?

Word of mouth is one good place to start. If someone has had a procedure and been satisfied this is a good person to put on your list. If you have interacted with a surgeon and find that person fulfills your vision of a “good surgeon” this is also a good start. 

The appearance of a website is important in the sense that it should be professional. The most attractive website does not mean that the surgeon is the most suitable for you. Experience, training, integrity and a commitment to excellence are the most important qualities of the facial plastic surgeon. The most important and the most difficult to assess is a commitment to excellence. If the surgeon is dedicated to constant improvement, over time that surgeon will have consistently superior results. Integrity and honesty are important since not all surgeons do all procedures and it is important for a surgeon to state that they do not do something, and refer the patient to someone else. It is important to avoid a surgeon who will any and  all cases. A good approach is to begin by comparing surgeons using characteristics of their practice that are hard to embellish or modify.  How many years has the surgeon been in practice?  This is easily searched from the governing body of the State (USA) or Province (Canada).  Does the surgeon have any malpractice judgments against them?  This may be available based on the laws in each State or Province.  See if you can ascertain what procedures the surgeon is most skilled at performing.  Do you know anyone who has had surgery from that surgeon?  How did they find the experience?  Remember that the surgeon may provide you a list of satisfied patients to contact, but this is a self selected list.

Consider visiting a few surgeons, usually you will find one surgeon who you feel most comfortable with; this is the best surgeon for you.  This does not mean they are the "best surgeon". The truth is there are many qualified surgeons skilled at performing the procedure you desire.