The decision to have cosmetic surgery is one only you can make for yourself. But if you have decided to go ahead with this, it is essential that you find a top-quality surgeon.

One thing to do is to get recommendations. Talk to patients who have had the same type of cosmetic surgery you are considering. Ask if they felt prepared enough, if they were satisfied with the results. Ask them how the procedure felt, and about their recovery process. Ask to see pictures of how they looked prior to the cosmetic surgery.

Interview at least three prospective plastic surgeons. Make sure you feel comfortable with them. Look at before-and-after pictures of actual patients of theirs. Ask them to tell you about potential risks and how they try to minimize the risks. Ask them how many times in a given year they do the type of cosmetic procedure you are considering.

Another important step is to check a doctor’s credentials. In the United States and Canada, there are several organizations that provide certification in plastic surgery or dermatology:

• The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) – this organization certifies doctors in plastic surgery.
• The American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPR) – this organization certifies doctors in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
• The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) – this group certifies doctors in plastic surgery for the body and face.
• The American Board of Dermatology – this group certifies doctors in the field of skin care
• The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada – this group certifies doctors in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Cosmetic surgeons may also belong to organizations that set standards for their members to meet. When interviewing a cosmetic surgeon, ask about which groups they belong to, as well as the procedures they follow to stay current with the latest developments in cosmetic and plastic surgery.You will also want to talk about cost. Since most cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance, you will have to come up with your own way to pay for the surgery. Obviously, you should never pick a surgeon just because they are the cheapest in price.