Are Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeries Always Successful?

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A New York Times article featured the story of Denise Kumpel, a woman who wanted to get rid of the bump on her nose and ended up encountering all kinds of problems. After numerous surgeries, surgeons, and almost $30,000 spent, Kumpel finally achieved satisfactory results.

“I thought I was going in for something fairly simple: I had a bump on my bridge and didn't like my profile,” Kumpel said. “But it became a never-ending cycle.”

Unfortunately, Kumpel is not alone in her experience. All surgeries, elective or not, have risks. But when it comes to elective cosmetic procedures, there are things consumers can do to combat these risks.

Not All Doctors Are Plastic Surgeons

Many doctors—from dentists to general practitioners—are nowadays cashing in on the booming plastic surgery industry, despite lacking the necessary qualifications.

“A physician needs to be licensed in medicine which means earning a recognized medical degree—and can hang out a shingle in any specialty he chooses. The state doesn't control what area of medicine he practices or which type of specialist he says he is unless there is a complaint and he is brought before the Office of Professional Medical Conduct,” said Dr. Stanley Taub, a New York City plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

By the time a complaint is made, Taub added, it is often too late.

“Public law and policy do not necessarily protect us from unreasonable and untrue claims,” he said.

Choosing a Qualified Plastic Surgeon

The most important part of plastic or cosmetic surgery is choosing the appropriate doctor. In choosing a plastic surgeon, it is crucial that a patient consider only surgeons who are board certified.

The wise consumer will choose a surgeon certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery. These surgeons are required to have at least 5 years of surgical training and 2 years of plastic surgery training.

There are over 5,000 members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in the United States and each surgeon is qualified and accredited by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

According to the ASPS, prospective patients should look for a board certified surgeon who is willing to answer all their questions without any pressure to sign up for the procedure. The surgeon should also respond to questions in a knowledgeable way, making clear the benefits of the procedure as well as the risks.

You Are Your Own Best Friend

Take your time to interview doctors, look at the facilities where procedures are performed, ask questions and be your own best friend.

Tonya Craft, a 33-year-old woman had nose surgery, but before she did she researched all her options and took her time in getting her procedure completed.

“I scheduled my procedure approximately 4 months after my initial consultation.”

Craft has a career in the medical field and knew something could go wrong—so she wanted time to process and research. This is always advisable and a reputable surgeon will respect this.

(Article by: Donna Corrado)

Considering cosmetic surgery? Click here to locate a board certified plastic surgeon near you.


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