The next step is to investigate your physician's credentials, such as board certification. If a physician indicates that he is board certified, make sure you question to which board he is referring. The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify plastic surgeons. A surgeon who is ABPS certified has graduated from an accredited medical school and completed at least five years of additional residency. After this, the surgeon must practice plastic surgery for two years and pass comprehensive written and oral exams. You can verify this information through www.certifieddoctor.org.

A national medical specialty society requiring ABPS certification as a condition for membership. Members of this society must adhere to rigid guidelines to maintain an active membership. ASAPS members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and concentrate their professional efforts in performing aesthetic surgery to help enhance the quality of life for patients.

After you have narrowed your list of candidates, consider asking these questions during the initial consultation:

• Do you do this procedure frequently or only occasionally and when did you last perform this procedure?
  
• What major hospitals and surgery centers are you affiliated with in
  the area?
  
• Could the surgeon show you various before and after photos of his other patients who had undergone the procedure you are considering?
  
• Did he candidly discuss the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure so you could make an informed choice?
  

After your consultation, think about this:

• Did the surgeon ask about your motivation or appearance goals?
  
• Were all your questions answered to your satisfaction?
  
• Did the surgeon welcome questions about professional qualifications, experience and cost?
  
• Did you feel comfortable talking with the surgeon about surgical and non-surgical alternative?