What’s up, doc? Choosing the right doctor for your plastic surgery

After you’ve decided on plastic surgery, the next big decision is choosing a surgeon. You don’t want just anyone playing doctor on your bits, so let’s discuss what to look for when going for some nip and tuck.

Are you experienced?

The first thing to look for is qualifications and experience. You need to find someone who has all their certifications in Australia – that takes 12 years of education and training in medicine and surgery. They must have specialised in plastic surgery for at least five years and must complete regular training to ensure their skills are always up to date.

Pipe up, Chachi!

As for experience ‘on the table’, you need to know that you have every right to ask the tough questions. Treat it like an interview; after all, it’s your body under the knife – literally. So remember to ask whether they’ve had five years of specialist training.

To be sure, check with the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). They register qualified plastic surgeons and ensure that all their registered members have adequate skills and experience to perform plastic surgery procedures.

Ask if your potential surgeon is registered with the ASPS. The answer should be yes. In Australia, any medical practitioner is allowed to do plastic surgery, but that doesn’t mean they specialise in it, so it’s important to check.

Getting the right fit

Just because a surgeon is a Michelangelo at tummy tucks, doesn’t mean they are virtuosos on boobs. Just like you wouldn’t get a spray painter to work on your car’s engine, you also shouldn’t get a nose guy to mess around with your junk. So another big rule is: make sure they have experience in the specific procedure you require.

You have to be comfortable with the surgeon you choose, so don’t be scared to shop around. The practice should be registered and obviously hygienic. Remember, an expensive address doesn’t automatically mean they are the best, so no matter where you are going, always do you homework.

Hopping a plane for plastic

Some people opt to get plastic surgery overseas because they think it’s cheaper. However, the total cost of an overseas surgery can be hidden in the cost of travel and accommodation, so it isn’t necessarily as cheap as you may think. Also, if there should be a need to re-visit your surgeon, remember you will be paying for travel and accommodation at least twice.

Opting for surgery overseas complicates matters even more because overseas plastic surgeons are not registered by Australian authorities, making it difficult to determine whether or not the surgeon is properly qualified. Not all countries have the same strict laws as Australia, so if you really feel this is an option for you, research is the most important factor in ensuring a successful surgery and minimising the chances of something going wrong.

Risky business

All surgeries carry risks, which is why research is essential when looking for a plastic surgeon. While overseas procedures may carry more risk, depending on the country, even Australian surgeries carry a certain amount of risk.

Choosing the right doctor for you is the best way to ensure a positive outcome, so don’t be afraid to take your time and choose wisely.

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