What Is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon? Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgery Expert

Your face is too important to entrust to just anyone. When considering any facial plastic surgery, “What is a board certified plastic surgeon?” should be the question at the very top of your list. Below, I’m breaking down why board certification is essential for facial plastic surgery and sharing what you need to know to ensure your safety and appearance are in the most capable hands.

What Does “Board-Certified” Signify?

The term “board certified” isn’t just a buzzword; it signifies a rigorous and demanding education, training, and evaluation process that a plastic surgeon must undergo to achieve the highest level of expertise. However, this certification isn’t a requirement for a physician to perform cosmetic procedures. That’s why patients must verify a surgeon’s credentials before investing in a facelift, rhinoplasty, brow lift, or other life-changing facial plastic surgery procedure.

Board certification by a recognized medical board, such as the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, represents the successful completion of the following:

• A residency, fellowship, or several years of specialized training in plastic surgery after graduating from medical school
• Thousands of hours performing facial surgeries under expert supervision
• Comprehensive written and oral board examinations
• A demonstrated commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and patient safety

I’m proudly dual board-certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology (head and neck surgery). This extensive training reflects my commitment to providing elite care and delivering exceptional aesthetical and functional outcomes.

Why Board Certification Matters for Facial Plastic Surgery

Facial plastic surgery is as much an art as it is a science. The nose, eyes, and jawline all work together to create balance; even minor refinements require deep anatomical knowledge and precision. Board certification gives you confidence that your surgeon has the expertise to:

• Customize procedures to suit your unique facial structure and aesthetic goals
• Minimize scarring and complications by using advanced surgical techniques
• Ensure the safest possible surgical environment

It avoids the pitfalls of “bargain plastic surgery,” which can lead to:

• Botched results that require corrective surgery
• Asymmetry, scarring, or unnatural-looking features
• Complications, infections, or nerve damage

Choosing a highly trained board-certified facial plastic surgeon ensures safe, high-quality care and natural-looking, long-lasting results.

How To Verify a Surgeon’s Credentials Before Booking a Consultation

Before trusting a surgeon with your face, take these steps to confirm their qualifications:

1. Check certification through a recognized member board of the American Board of Medical Specialties: https://www.certificationmatters.org/
2. Look for additional affiliations with organizations like the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS).
3. Review education and training on the surgeon’s website or medical review sites.
4. Examine before-and-after photos to assess the quality of their work.
5. Read patient testimonials and ensure they have a strong reputation for safety and care.

Once you’ve “vetted” your surgeon’s qualifications, it’s time to schedule a personalized consultation to ensure you’re comfortable with their rapport and bedside manner.