Last Updated on January 14, 2025 by Caesar

Choosing to undergo plastic surgery is a highly personal decision, and finding the right plastic surgeon is a key part of that process. Numerous practitioners offering various cosmetic procedures such as blepharoplasty, also called eyelid surgery. By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to find a board-certified plastic surgeon who aligns with your needs:
Identify Your Plastic Surgery Needs
The first step in finding a board-certified plastic surgeon is understanding your specific goals and needs. Having clarity can improve your search if you’re considering facial procedures, body contouring, or reconstructive surgery. Each plastic surgeon may specialize in particular areas. These areas of expertise may include rhinoplasty to breast augmentation or rejuvenation.
Knowing what you want allows you to focus your search on professionals who have experience and expertise in that area. Determine your desired outcomes and prepare a list of questions. The more clearly you outline your goals, the easier it will be to find a suitable surgeon.
Determine if Specialties Align
Once you’ve outlined your surgery goals, check if a surgeon’s expertise aligns with your needs. Many plastic surgeons specialize in specific types of procedures. Their training, approach, and results often reflect their specialization. For example, a surgeon specializing in facial surgeries may have extensive experience in facelifts, blepharoplasty, or neck lifts, while another may focus on procedures like liposuction or tummy tucks.
Looking into a surgeon’s portfolio may provide insight into their expertise. Many board-certified surgeons share before-and-after photos of past patients on their websites. This can help you assess their skills and get a glimpse of their aesthetic approach. Look at patient testimonials to understand the experiences of others.
Search the ABPS Website
Certification is a key factor when choosing a plastic surgeon. The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) maintains a directory of board-certified plastic surgeons, providing a reliable source for locating qualified professionals. Certification through the ABPS signifies that a surgeon has completed rigorous training, including specific education and residency requirements.
By visiting the ABPS website, you can search for surgeons in your area and verify their certifications. This step helps to make sure that the surgeon is trained and adheres to high ethical and professional standards. Additionally, many ABPS-certified surgeons belong to professional organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), which uphold codes of conduct and foster continued education.
Ask Questions During Consultations
After narrowing your options to a few potential surgeons, setting up consultations is an excellent way to evaluate their approach and communication skills. During consultations, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your goals, ask questions about the procedure. This helps to get a sense of whether the surgeon’s practices align with your values.
When speaking with prospective surgeons, ask about their training, years of experience, and whether they’ve performed the specific procedure you’re interested in. Inquire about their approach to patient care, from preparation to recovery. Learn about their bedside manner, response to complications, and ability to listen to your concerns.
Explore Blepharoplasty and Other Procedures
Finding a board-certified plastic surgeon you can trust involves careful planning and research. You can narrow down your decision by identifying your needs, verifying certifications on the ABPS website, aligning specialties, and asking thoughtful questions during consultations. For those seeking expert guidance and personalized care, investing time in this process will help you take informed steps toward achieving your aesthetic or reconstructive goals.