Choosing a plastic surgeon is a big decision. You are trusting them with your body, so you want to make sure you are in the best hands possible. If you are preparing to choose a plastic surgeon, here are some questions you should ask.
Number 1: Are you board certified?
Licensing and certification can be confusing, especially when it comes to cosmetic and plastic surgery. In fact, any licensed physician can legally call himself or herself a cosmetic surgeon, regardless of their training. Don’t be tricked by a “Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon,” as they are not the same as a “Board Certified Plastic Surgeon!”
“Board Certified in Plastic Surgery” means that a surgeon has been awarded Board Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board Certification in Plastic Surgery is awarded only after finishing a formal residency in Plastic Surgery (typically a minimum of six years) and passing a rigorous written and oral examination which includes cases from a surgeon’s own practice. Board Certification in Plastic Surgery can only be awarded by The American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Both Dr. Michael Loffredo and Dr. Seth Jones are Board Certified Plastic Surgeons, having completed their six-year residency together at the Medical College of Wisconsin, followed by prestigious and specialized fellowships before opening their practice together in 2011.
Number 2: How many procedures of this type have you performed?
Experience is key when it comes to plastic surgery. Years of experience, specialized training and performing and perfecting procedures over time are all vital to a surgeon’s skill. Dr. Loffredo and Dr. Jones have performed tens of thousands of surgeries in their careers.
Number 3: Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
Plastic surgery isn’t a one size fits all specialty. Determining whether a patient is a good candidate for the procedure is an essential first step in the consultation process. We perform physical exams as well as patient intakes to best assess a patient’s candidacy, and always discuss other options and alternatives if the desired procedure is not recommended.
Number 4: Do you have before-and-after photos I can look at for each procedure and what results are reasonable for me?
In the waiting room of Cape and Islands Plastic Surgery, you’ll find several binders full of before and after photos. As part of our pre-surgical consults, we always show patients photos as well as educate them on what they can expect on an individualized level.
Number 5: How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
Recovery time is one of our patients’ most common concerns here at CIPS. Our consultations always include a thorough review of the recovery process including a timeline, possible complications, follow-up care, and a pain management plan if applicable. Our team of doctors and nurses work together to provide the best post-operative care possible and are always available to answer questions.
