Finding a doctor who is board certified is not enough when it comes to having an aesthetic procedure performed. It’s important that the doctor you ultimately choose to perform your surgery or procedure is board certified in the specialty of the procedure you are having.
Just because a doctor is board certified and has “MD” following his or her name doesn’t mean he or she is appropriately certified to perform any type of cosmetic procedure. Technically, any doctor can purchase injectables, fillers and laser machines and perform any cosmetic treatment or surgery.
Once board certified, specialists can seek membership in a variety of organizations that deal with aesthetic procedures. Look for plastic surgeons who are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and/or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. An appropriately qualified facial plastic surgeon can be a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dermatologists can belong to the American Academy of Dermatology and/or the American Society for Dermatological Surgery.