When it comes to plastic surgery, you have a variety of options. One of the biggest considerations you need to make is the certifications held by your plastic surgeon. The best certification for someone performing plastic surgery is through The American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification shows that the surgeon has the highest standards in a variety of areas. Some of those areas include technique and skills, safety, and judgment. If you’re looking for a surgeon to perform plastic surgery, the first question you should ask is where their certification is through. At Cincinnati Plastic Surgery, Dr. Martin is a board-certified plastic surgeon. You can verify his certification through ABPS as well as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Plastic Surgeon vs. Cosmetic Surgeon
Plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons both go to medical school. That’s where the differences stop. Plastic surgeons receives more hands-on training in plastic surgery, as plastic surgery is their chosen specialty. Some plastic surgeons may focus in other areas as well. For instance, Dr. Martin did a five-year general surgery residency and a seven-year plastic surgery residency and was chief resident in both programs. Because Dr. Martin trained for so long in plastic surgery and is a member of the ASPS, you’re in good hands.
Cosmetic surgeons are different. Typically, cosmetic surgeons are board-certified, just not in the field of plastic surgery. While it’s a plus they’re board-certified in something, you never want your plastic surgery performed by someone who isn’t trained in the field. That would be like a cardiac doctor performing brain surgery on a patient.
Cosmetic surgeons, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, tend to say their certifications are just as good as ABPS and ASPS. However, the training to become a cosmetic surgeon is not as rigorous as the training to be a plastic surgeon.
What the Certifications Mean
Certifications are everything to a surgeon. While it may seem impressive when a surgeon says they have multiple board certifications, you’ll want to inquire about those certifications. It does nothing for you if your surgeon handling your surgery is board certified in dermatology, ear, throat, and nose, and cosmetic surgery. Finding a surgeon with certifications through ABPS and who is a member of ASPS will help you in the long run.
The Biggest Question to Ask
The biggest question to ask during your consultation is where your prospective surgeon’s certifications are through. You may also ask where they went to college, med school, and where they did their residencies. Remember, you want a surgeon who is certified through ASPS and ABPS.
If you’re looking for a surgeon to perform your plastic surgery, make sure their certifications are in order and through appropriate boards. Many people who receive plastic surgery from cosmetic surgeons are less satisfied than those who had surgery through a plastic surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Martin will answer all your questions, including the differences between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon. When it comes time to your appointment, know that Dr. Martin is the surgeon that other surgeons go to. Call our office now to set up your consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon.
