The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery recently applauded the USA today newspaper for reporting the importance of appropriate training, board certification, and facility accreditation in plastic surgery. Patient safety is at risk as more and more are performing procedures without proper training.
Check for board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only Board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Check for American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery membership. This membership is by invitation only by the society and ensures board certification and significant experience in cosmetic surgery. Other boards not recognized by ABMS, do exist, but without the standards set forth for membership in the American Board of Medical Specialties.