Choosing a plastic surgeon with board certification is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that you get the best possible results from your cosmetic surgery procedure. What exactly does board certification mean? Read the following information provided by Portland plastic surgery provider Dr. Michael Bohley to find out.
Look for Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
When choosing a plastic surgeon, make sure that he or she is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This is an important distinction because a general surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Surgery is not necessarily qualified to perform your breast augmentation or facelift surgery. Similarly, a dermatologist who is certified by the American Board of Dermatology is not qualified to perform abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery). Thus, being certified by ABPS ensures that the plastic surgeon is exactly that, a plastic surgeon.
What Board Certification by ABPS Entails
Board certification also demonstrates that the plastic surgeon has completed a minimum of five years of surgery training, including two years of specific plastic surgery training. Board-certified plastic surgeons are trained in a variety of cosmetic surgery techniques, including facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelift and rhinoplasty (nose surgery); body contouring procedures such as tummy tuck, liposuction and thigh lift; and breast surgery such as breast augmentation, breast lift and breast reduction. Board-certified plastic surgeons are also trained in reconstruction surgical techniques.
For plastic surgeons, earning board certification also entails a commitment to continuing education. Board-certified plastic surgeons must stay up-to-date with new cosmetic surgery techniques and meet specific requirements regarding ongoing surgical education.
Aside from meeting strenuous training and education requirements, board-certified plastic surgeons must follow a strict code of ethics. Also, they can only operate in accredited surgical facilities, so you can feel confident that your surgery is taking place in a clean, safe and well-equipped environment.
Finding a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Finding a board-certified plastic surgeon can be as easy as visiting the ABPS website. Or, to schedule a personal consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bohley, contact Dr. Bohley Cosmetic Surgery by calling (503) 253-3458 right now.
