Credentials: Evaluating Cosmetic Surgery Referral Sources
NEW
YORK, NY (December 14, 2000) — There are
many potential sources for cosmetic plastic
surgery referrals, but not all are equally
credible. The American Society for Aesthetic
Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) offers the following
tips to help consumers evaluate referral
sources:
- The American Society for Aesthetic
Plastic Surgery (ASAPS): Toll-free referral
service (888-ASAPS-11) and Find-a-Surgeon
at www.surgery.org.
Members are American Board of Plastic
Surgery-certified surgeons who specialize
in cosmetic surgery of the face and body.
societies: High standards mean reliable
referrals. Organizations of medical
professionals do not all share the same
high standards. When evaluating a medical
organization as a source for cosmetic
surgery referrals, be certain that the
American Board of Plastic Surgery certifies
its members.
Referrals from a friend who has had cosmetic
surgery can be useful. But surgery, recovery
and results will vary. Every patient presents
a unique set of characteristics that require
a customized surgical plan.
If a family doctor is well acquainted
with the work or results of surgeons in
the community, he or she may be a good
resource. Be sure to ask the doctor to
recommend a surgeon who is certified by
the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
There is a wealth of information about
cosmetic surgery on the Internet; there
is also a great deal of misinformation.
In general, trust web sites affiliated
with recognized medical societies. Be
cautious when dealing with commercial
web sites that offer referrals to doctors,
sometimes in conjunction with patient
financing. Independently check the credentials
of any physician referred by any site.
Be wary of advertisements that promise
painless or easy surgery, guarantee unrealistic
results, or use misleading language. Appropriate
advertisements state a surgeon’s
credentials, including board certification
and the name of the certifying board.
Surgeons should never be selected on the
basis of advertising alone.
In most cases, it is impossible for a
prospective patient to determine what
considerations motivate fee-for-referral
arrangements. Such referrals may be made
in the consultant’s best interests,
and not necessarily the patient’s.
of a surgeon’s qualifications.
The media frequently interview plastic
surgeons. Some surgeons serve as spokespersons
for reputable professional organizations,
and others hire public relations representatives.
A doctor’s appearance in the media
is no guarantee of training or skill.
not rule. While the surgical
fee needs to be considered, it should
never be the primary factor in selecting
a plastic surgeon. The surgeon’s
training, certification and experience
are key to the success of cosmetic surgery.
The over 2,500-member American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) is the only plastic surgery organization devoted entirely to the advancement of cosmetic surgery. ASAPS is recognized throughout the world as the authoritative source for cosmetic surgery education. U.S. members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Canadian members are certified in plastic surgery by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Toll-free referral line: 888.ASAPS.11 (272.7711). Website: www.surgery.org
Media Contact:
- Adeena Babbitt
Manager of Media Relations - Dina Khiry
Media Associate - e-mail: media@surgery.org
Tel: 212.921.0500
Fax: 212.921.0011 - Please credit the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
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