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

If you are considering plastic surgery, your first step is to find a center you can trust, one that will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision and provide the red carpet treatment you deserve. Start by making a list of five to seven cosmetic centers in your area that have earned a positive reputation or have been recommended to you by friends and family.

It’s always a good idea to tour the plastic surgery facilities on your list. Many centers will offer free consultations, or give you a guided tour of the facility.

Here are a few things to take note of during your tour:

• Is the facility clean and well organized?
• Is the environment inviting, relaxing, and peaceful
• Is the cosmetic surgery staff pleasant, friendly, and accommodating?
• Are your questions answered directly and thoroughly?
• Does the practice use state-of-the-art technology and offer the most advanced treatments?
• Do they have multiple office locations?
• What is the overall practice philosophy?
• Do they offer a wide variety of surgical procedures for the body, breast and face, as well as nonsurgical medspa procedures.
• Do they have patient testimonials and before and after photos available for review?
• Have they had any recent media coverage?
• Do they offer plastic surgery seminars to help potential patients learn about their options?

Remember that a comprehensive, high-tech facility is only one aspect of a practice. Make sure you ask questions regarding the background and training of the surgeon, as well. At the office of Dr. Robert Aycock our experienced plastic surgeon won the award for the 2008 Best Plastic Surgeon in the North Bay Area.

Find out more about our physician and the benefits of our modern facility. If you live in or near the Bay Area, please contact Dr. Robert Aycock for your confidential cosmetic surgery consultation.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant