That's a Myth.

No regulations govern what type of medical practitioner can perform plastic surgery procedures. So the best way to know your surgeon is qualified is to choose an ASPS Member Surgeon.

ASPS Member Surgeons:

• Are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to perform plastic surgery of the face and all areas of the body

• Have at least six years of surgical training and experience, with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery

• Operate only in accredited facilities

• Fulfill continuing medical education requirements

That's another Myth, here are the facts...

Any physician can call them self whatever he/she wishes, however only Surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery are true Plastic Surgeons. All the others tend to be from different specialties (Dermatologists, Oral Surgeons, Ear Nose and Throat, Gynecologists etc)

That's a Myth too.

There are many variables involved in the pricing of plastic surgery procedures - including geographic location, surgeon expertise and demand, and the time and effort your procedure requires. Other factors include the costs of anesthesia, surgical facility fee, labs, and more. Be sure to ask your surgeon about all costs involved.

When choosing a plastic surgeon, remember that the surgeon’s qualifications and experience as well as your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the surgery. Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans.

Myth. Here are the facts...

Asking tough questions is the best way to get to know your surgeon. It gives you the opportunity to learn about their qualifications, experience, and demeanor. Your questions let them know you’ve done your homework, want to be educated about your procedure, and will be an active partner throughout the process.

Step 1: Questions to Ask When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

1 • Are you an ASPS Member Surgeon? (If he or she answers "yes," you can rest assured that your surgeon is board certified in plastic surgery, has hospital privileges and only performs surgery in accredited facilities.)

2 • Are you board-certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada?

3 • Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? If so, at which hospitals?

4 • Is the surgical facility accredited?

5 • How many procedures of this type have you performed?

Step 2: Questions to Ask Your ASPS Member Surgeon

It’s important to talk to your ASPS Member Surgeon about your goals and your treatment. Feel confident asking about your doctor’s credentials, experience, outcomes or safety record. It is your body, your safety and your life.

1 • Am I a good candidate for this procedure?

2 • What will be expected of me to get optimal results?

3 • What are the risks involved with my procedure?

4 • How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?

5 • Will I need to take time off work? If so, how long?

Another myth.

Reputable surgeons will have no problem supplying you with contact information for some of their recent patients. Speaking with patients about their experience and results is an excellent way to learn more about your surgeon.

Myth.

Some practitioners perform plastic surgery procedures in non-accredited facilities. Making sure that your procedure can be performed in an accredited facility will significantly reduce safety risks and increase your comfort level. ASPS Member Surgeons perform surgeries only in accredited facilities.

That's a Myth too, here are the facts...

Plastic surgery encompasses both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. ASPS Member Surgeons are trained, experienced, and qualified to perform both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures on the face and all areas of the body. Because many cosmetic procedures are rooted in reconstructive plastic surgery, ASPS Member Surgeons are uniquely qualified to handle your cosmetic needs.

Myth.

Contrary to what reality shows portray, extreme makeovers are far from routine or common in plastic surgery. Most patients inquire about one particular area of the body that they would like to improve.

During your consultation, you will be asked a series of questions to gain an understanding of your goals for plastic surgery and discuss them with you on a realistic basis.

Another Myth, the fact is...

In November 2006, the FDA reversed its 14-year ban on silicone breast implants, allowing patients in the United States access to the same implants that women in 60 countries around the world already have.

You can find a wealth of scientific information on the safety of silicone breast implants at www.breastimplantsafety.org.

That's a big Myth...

A 2005 study found that almost 60 percent of people who had recently had plastic surgery or were seriously considering plastic surgery had a household income of $30,000–$90,000 a year. In fact, 40 percent of that 60 percent reported an annual income of $60,000 or less. Just 10 percent of respondents reported a household income of more than $90,000.