There are many well qualified Plastic Surgeons practicing in Phoenix. However, many kinds of physicians offer “cosmetic surgery” with variable amounts of training or qualifications. I always encourage patients to ask about training and credentials - and specifically if their surgeon is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This assures that the most vigorous standards of safety, training and quality are met.
Plastic Surgeon vs. Cosmetic Surgeon
Although sometimes used interchangeably, the terms plastic surgeon and cosmetic surgeon are not necessarily the same type of physician. Many doctors of different specialties claim to be cosmetic surgeons, which is not an ACGME accredited specialty. Plastic surgery, on the other hand, meets the accreditation standard and is a recognized medical specialty.
Once you have identified your physician is indeed a plastic surgeon, it makes sense to verify his or her training accreditation. Accreditation is a process that a medical program undergoes, verifying compliance to certain rigorous standards. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) renders accreditation decisions after a thorough review of the medical program. To be sure, when choosing a plastic surgeon, it is important to verify that your surgeon completed training at an accredited ACGME residency program.
Also important is a physician’s board-certified or board-eligible status. Surgeons seeking board eligibility have committed to the highest comprehensive training and testing within their specialty. By participating in the certification process through the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a surgeon reflects a commitment to high standards and arduous training within their professional field.
Five Qualities of the Best Plastic Surgeons in Phoenix
There are many important qualities you should expect from any of the best plastic surgeons in Phoenix. Select a plastic surgeon after carefully considering the following:
Education and Experience
As stated earlier, seek out a physician who has graduated from an accredited plastic surgery program. Also, recognize that a plastic surgeon who is either board-certified or board-eligible has made the voluntary decision to commit to the highest level of professional training. This speaks to the surgeon’s overall commitment to excellence. Top tier education coupled with experience should offer assurances that your surgical care will be second to none.
Compassionate Care: Before, During and After Surgery
Generally, technical surgical skill is integral to great results. Equally important is a surgeon’s ability to offer compassionate care from beginning to end. Undergoing any surgery can be stressful or worrisome for most patients. Therefore, choose a surgeon who listens intently so you feel supported and understood throughout the process. A superb physician recognizes that compassionate care is paramount to achieving outstanding outcomes.
Office Staff: Consistency, Professionalism, Comfort
The best plastic surgeons instill a sense of pride, consistency, and professionalism throughout their office. As a result, office interactions will be positive and helpful. By noticing phone interactions and front desk experiences, you will gain good insight into the character of the practice. Do not settle for anything less than extraordinary care.
Operating Facilities
A plastic surgeon’s operating facilities should be stellar and highly equipped for optimal patient care. Accordingly, ask where your surgeon operates and ensure that you feel comfortable with the facility. Consider the anesthesia providers as well. The best plastic surgeons work with the best anesthesiologists, collaborating to achieve optimal outcomes. In Arizona, there are multiple different types of providers who can administer sedation or anesthesia – be sure to clarify who will be taking care of you. Also ask if they optimize regional anesthesia as part of their approach.
The Best Plastic Surgeon is the One Who Realizes your Goals
Just as each patient has personalized goals, each plastic surgeon brings a unique skill set, background and personality to the case. Remember, when choosing a plastic surgeon, the decision is multifaceted. There are many important factors to consider. We hope this blog post assists your search for the best plastic surgeon who can help you realize your goals.
About Dr. Craft
Dr. Craft is among the best plastic surgeons in Phoenix. Dr. Craft is Harvard trained and Double Board Certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. And with over 300,000 votes cast, he won Best of The Valley for Plastic Surgery 2023 by Phoenix Magazine. Most importantly, his patients feel comfortable and truly heard. Come see what sets us apart.
