As you narrow your search for a qualified plastic surgeon, Beverly Hill plastic surgeon Dr. A.J. Khalil encourages you to limit your options to board certified plastic surgeons only. Working with a board certified plastic surgeon reduces your risks of surgery and maximizes your chances for success. Here, Dr. Khalil shares the top five reasons why board certification matters.

1. Extensive Training

In order to become board-certified, a plastic surgeon must graduate from an accredited medical school and complete at least six years of medical training covering all aspects of plastic surgery. This training is extremely important because it prepares the surgeon for the specific procedure(s) you are considering.

2. Knows How to Prevent and Handle Complications

Board certified plastic surgeons are thoroughly trained to prevent complications and deal with them if they happen. Although you probably do not want to imagine something going wrong during or after your surgery, rest assured that a board certified plastic surgeon is prepared to deal with complications quickly and effectively.

3. Rigorous Testing

Board certified plastic surgeons need to pass comprehensive oral and written examinations testing their knowledge in all plastic surgery procedures.

4. Continuing Education

Board certified plastic surgeons must attend hours of continuing education courses in order to keep their skills and technology up-to-date.

5. Adherence to a Code of Ethics

To attain and maintain board certification, plastic surgeons must understand and agree to a strict code of ethics governing their professional behavior. Not acting in accord with this code of ethics could result in revocation of certification and other disciplinary actions.

Know Which Board Your Surgeon Is Certified By

Unfortunately, certain doctors try to deceive patients by claiming they are board certified, but not providing any documentation to confirm it. Or, they are vague about the board that certified them, when it is actually in a field unrelated to plastic surgery.

The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only plastic surgery board accredited by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Beware of boards that sound similar, like the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, but are not recognized by ABMS.

If you are considering working with a particular plastic surgeon, meet with them for a consultation. During the appointment, ask the plastic surgeon the following questions:

  • Are you board certified?
  • If so, by which board?
  • Is that board recognized by the AMBS?

After you have your answers, you will have a better idea of the quality of surgeon you are speaking to.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Khalil

If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khalil, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, please call 310.385.8601 or email our practice today.