Questions About Plastic Surgery

2. What is the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and who is a member?

This society is the only society which includes only board certified and credentialed plastic surgeons from around the world. The society comprises more than 95% of all plastic surgeons. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons represents 97% of all physicians certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You can view this site, or call the ASPS to determine the status of an individual plastic surgeon at www.plasticsurgery.org or by calling 800-635-0635.

3. What is the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and who can be a member?

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) www.surgery.org (1-888-272-7711) is the society of board-certified plastic surgeons who chose to focus their practice on aesthetic or cosmetic surgery. ASAPS member surgeons are fully trained in all facets of reconstructive procedures as well.

4. Why is it important that the board a doctor is certified by is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties?

The American Board of Medical Specialties, (ABMS), (http://www.abms.org) is a not-for-profit organization that assists 24 approved medical specialty boards in the development and use of standards in the ongoing evaluation and certification of physicians. ABMS, recognized as the "gold standard" in physician certification, believes higher standards for physicians means better care for patients. You can feel confident that your board-certified plastic surgeon has had the proper training to safely care for you in a state of the art manner. Board-certified plastic surgeons should operate only in accredited surgical centers staffed by well-trained and credentialed providers.