Cosmetic surgery, the art and science of enhancing the physical appearance of facial and bodily features, is safer than most people might expect. Cosmetic procedures are becoming more accessible and affordable, and people today are more open about sharing their cosmetic surgery experiences. Frequent improvements in technology, equipment, and safety have helped procedures like liposuction, breast lift, and facelift see a decline in complication rates and become much safer than they once were. You can improve safety, too, but choosing your procedure, your facility, and your surgeon wisely.

Surgeon Accreditation

When you choose a care provider who is an ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons) member, you can expect vast experience and focused expertise, two traits that are integral to achieving safety in the operating room. Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), he or she has endured many hours of patient care, rigorous testing, and peer evaluation.

When you choose a Board-Certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Robert Aycock, you are guaranteeing that your surgeon has received at least five years of surgical training, plus a minimum two-year plastic surgery program. ASPS members are also fully trained in the field of cosmetic surgery, meaning they have thorough knowledge of all types of plastic surgery procedures, including facial plastic surgery, body sculpting, and reconstruction. ASPS surgeons must also commit to regular continuing education training, including frequent updates in patient safety.

Facility Accreditation

When you choose a surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you can relax knowing he or she operates in accredited facilities only. A facility receives accreditation only after it has met a wide range of qualifications set by a state or national accrediting agency. For instance, accredited centers must maintain extremely low complication rates. When considering a cosmetic surgery facility, do not be afraid to ask your doctor about the practice’s safety standards and how they reduce risk of complication in their accredited outpatient surgical center.

Your Role in Safety

Remember, you can reduce your risks by choosing your provider carefully, providing a thorough medical history, and having realistic expectations about what cosmetic surgery can do for you. To learn more about cosmetic enhancement and today’s safety standards, please contact Dr. Aycock at his Bay Area practice.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Cosmetic surgery is not only a highly skilled science, it’s a delicate artform that requires an astute eye and a deep understanding of each individual’s needs. If you are considering enhancing your appearance with one or more of the incredible cosmetic procedures available today, make sure you count experience as one of your most important surgeon attributes.

No matter how skilled or artistic a surgeon may be, years of experience with a variety of different patients helps build a strong foundation of knowledge that no textbook can provide. By experiencing many real-world scenarios and leading patients from curiosity to positive change is a wonderful way for doctors to grasp the importance of their role and to deal with very diverse cosmetic needs.

If you’ve thought about plastic surgery, but aren’t sure where to start, talk to neighbors, friends, and family members to find out whom they recommend. You can also place a few phone calls to surgeons in your area to get feel for their service standards and ask questions about experience and other factors.

Remember, board certification is no guarantee of great results. Surgeon skill and experience can vary greatly depending on where you go. Finding a trusted plastic surgeon like San Francisco’s own Dr. Robert Aycock can mean a world of difference in the personal service you receive as well as your surgical outcome.

With more than 20 years of experience in all types of cosmetic procedures, including breast surgery, facial rejuvenation, and nonsurgical cosmetic treatments, Dr. Aycock has helped countless patients achieve beautiful, natural results. Have a look at some of his before and after photos to get an idea of his experience and his capabilities.

Dr. Aycock, in his specialty of plastic and reconstructive surgery, has held staff positions at many California facilities, including John Muir Medical Center, Marin General Hospital, Novato Community Hospital, Greenbrae Surgery Center, and the Breast Center of Northern California. He was also named the best plastic surgeon in the Northbay for 2008-2009.

Learn more about Dr. Aycock’s experience and set up a consultation to find out how he can help you reach your body goals. Please contact Dr. Robert Aycock today for your confidential cosmetic surgery orientation.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant