Thursday, December 6, 2012

Characteristics of a Top-Rated Plastic Surgeon in San Diego

Making the choice for plastic surgery should not be taken lightly, so it’s vital to find a trustworthy, reliable and skilled plastic surgeon. San Diego residents have a few different ways they can find a top-rated plastic surgeon in the area.

Extensive Training

The first place to check is with your state medical board. Your surgeon must have a valid, active medical license in your state. Also check on any disciplinary action or malpractice suits that have been filed against the doctor. 

Relevant Experience

Having the right credentials is important, but you also want to make sure your surgeon has experience performing the exact procedure you’re interested in. Even for a fairly straightforward procedure, a surgeon who has performed the surgery many times is preferable to one who has only done a few. 

Excellent Reputation

Above all, check for references from trusted sources, or family and friends who have had positive experiences. Professional excellence is essential, but so is finding a surgeon with an excellent bedside manner who you can really put your trust in. Sometimes the choice of a surgeon comes down to personal connection, and that means looking beyond framed diplomas and low complication rates. 

A top-notch plastic surgeon will have an eye for detail, and a tendency toward perfectionism. This combination will drive them to deliver the best possible results. Your surgeon should also be able to offer suggestions for how to obtain the look you want, yet without pressuring you into procedures you aren’t interested in, or are uncomfortable with. Open and supportive communication with your surgeon is another must; a good comfort level will help ensure a positive surgical experience.

Monday, December 3, 2012

3 Things to Look for in Patient Photos of Liposuction in San Diego

3 Things to Look for in Liposuction Patient Photos

When considering liposuction in the San Diego area, there are literally hundreds of doctors to choose from. While looking at before and after liposuction photos can help you make your provider choice, just what, exactly, should you be looking for?

1. Variety

The first thing to observe when comparing before and after photos of liposuction from San Diego practitioners is how many photos there are to look at. You want your surgeon to be experienced in performing the procedure. You should also be able to see a range of examples; an average surgeon might get lucky a few times and only post those few photos, leaving the not-so-hot results out of the lineup. 

2. Similarity

Although every patient responds to treatments differently, looking at those who have a “before” shape that is similar to your natural figure will give a much better idea of how your results may look in the end. Similar-looking patients are also a good indicator that your surgeon will have experience addressing the same problem spots that you would like treated. 

3. Improvements

Of course, the main quality to look for is a big improvement from “before” to “after.” Don’t be so overwhelmed by the major changes that you forget to examine the minor ones, however. Contours should definitely be slimmer, but note also any corrections in asymmetry. Skin irregularities or a wavy appearance following lipo should definitely be minimal...or better yet, entirely absent. 

Finally, when looking at before and after photos for any procedure, remember that in this day of simple digital image manipulation, not everything may be as it appears. A consultation with your surgeon should be included to get a feel for your provider before booking your appointment.