Why Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Matter
When it comes to any medical procedure, everyone wants a surgeon who is qualified, safe, and properly trained. Choosing the right plastic surgeon is even more important because aesthetic surgeries are completely elective — yet they carry real risks, including the potential for serious complications.
Plastic surgery is a lucrative field, which has unfortunately attracted many doctors who market themselves as “cosmetic surgeons.” However, these individuals often lack the resources needed to provide optimal anesthetic care and the surgical training necessary to handle complications. Some even point to a short six-week rotation during medical school as “surgical training.” In reality, medical students typically only observe surgeries or assist in minor ways, without participating in critical decision-making or surgical planning.
Their websites may highlight vague credentials or promote certifications in “Cosmetic Surgery.” However, it’s important to understand: any group of individuals can create a “board.”
The only true, officially recognized board for aesthetic surgery is the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
There are only 24 recognized medical specialties acknowledged by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Earning and maintaining certification from one of these prestigious boards requires:
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Completing an ACGME-accredited residency program
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Passing rigorous board examinations
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Continuing to practice medicine without major disciplinary issues
How to Verify Your Surgeon’s Credentials
The best place to check a surgeon’s credentials is not their own website. Many “cosmetic surgeons” use vague language to appear more qualified than they are.
Additionally, a true plastic surgeon would not call themselves a “cosmetic surgeon.” Instead, they would use the more accurate and respected title: “Aesthetic Surgeon.”
You might also consider checking with the hospital where the surgeon has privileges. However, hospital privileges alone can be misleading. Any physician — including radiologists, emergency doctors, and primary care physicians — can have hospital privileges. Having “operating room privileges” does not necessarily mean they are qualified to perform plastic surgery.
The most reliable sources to verify a surgeon’s training and board certification are:
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abms.org (American Board of Medical Specialties): Search your surgeon’s name to confirm their residency training and board certification status.
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abplasticsurgery.org (American Board of Plastic Surgery): Find board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States.
If you cannot find your surgeon’s name on these sites, it’s a red flag — they may not have completed a legitimate residency or maintained their certification.
The Bottom Line
When considering plastic surgery, choose someone who cared enough to complete the necessary years of rigorous training — not someone who cut corners. You’re investing your money, your time away from work, the energy of your loved ones, and most importantly, your health.
Do your research.
Your safety and your results depend on it.
