Essential Steps To Choosing A Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon

Having undergone numerous cosmetic/plastic surgery operations in the past, I have found it absolutely paramount that both men and women find a surgeon who is competent, experienced and skilled at the knife. Here I have provided some basic explanations for the initials one finds on the doctor's door, desk etc, that indicate his training as a surgeon.

UK based surgeons: "FRCS", also known as the "Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons", is an indication that the doctor has undergone the relevant and basic training needed to become a surgeon. This should be the minimum qualification requirement for anyone practicing cosmetic surgery in Britain.

There are two main professional organisations in Britain to which a cosmetic surgeon may belong. They are the 'British Association of Cosmetic Surgeons' (BACS), and the 'British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). However, membership to any of these bodies does not guarantee a surgeon's ability.

Your GP may obtain the BACS list of surgeons if it is what you desire. The address to whom he/she must write to is: BACS, 17 Harley Street, London WIN IDA.

The BAAPS list is available from BAAPS, 35-43, Lincoln's Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3PN.

Further information is available at www.bapras.org.uk and www.which.co.uk. (under the health and wellbeing section).

In regards to the States, having the initial ABPS (American Board of Plastic Surgery), is the minimum requirement for those seeking cosmetic/plastic surgery. This qualification ensures that the doctor has a medical degree from an accredited school, undergone at least 3 years of training in general surgery and a minimum of two years' residency in plastic surgery.

The ABPS can be contacted at: ABPS, Seven Penn Center, Suite 400, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103-2204. (1-215-587-9322).

I It is possible to call the American Board off Medical Specialities to check any doctor's credentials on 1-800-776-2378, or on line at www.abms.org.

As well as qualifications, a surgeon's 'surgical experience' is also important to consider. Experienced and skilled surgeon's always have a long waiting list and it is always best to wait rather than being impatient and visiting a less experienced, less qualified surgeon who may not deal too well with unforeseen complications for example.

Here are the guidelines recommended by The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, whom are the largest organisation representing physicians performing cosmetic/plastic surgery in the USA:

The surgeon should
- Have been primarily practising cosmetic surgery for the last 5 years
- Have performed no less than 1,000 cosmetic operations
- Be currently performing no less than 200 documented cosmetic procedures per year

Once satisfied with the surgeon's credentials you must then decided whether this surgeon is right for you.

Gareth Williams is a well informed individual who specialises in Male Cosmetic/plastic surgery. Having undergone a few procedures himself, and having interviewed countless cosmetic/plastic surgeons, his knowledge is second to none. Whether you are male of female you will find his blog very informative and a Godsend to anyone who is intrigued by the cosmetic/plastic surgery World. For further information please visit http://malecosmeticsurgery.blogspot.com

By Gareth Ap Rhisiart Williams