How To Select a Surgeon

Don’t Trust Your Body To Just Anyone

It’s wise to be proactive in all aspects of your health—including choosing a plastic surgeon. Some doctors are much more qualified than others, and it’s very important to do your research before you begin the process.

Check Qualifications:

Verify that your surgeon is appropriately board certified in his or her specialty. In the U.S., you want to look for certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). Qualifications include a specialized residency in surgery, otolaryngology or orthopedics, as well as an approved, supervised two- to three-year plastic surgery training residency. Once completed, a physician becomes eligible to take a rigorous set of oral and written examinations. Plastic surgeons who pass those requirements may then apply for membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

For major procedures, also check that the medical facility is fully accredited and that the doctor has privileges to perform that procedure there—even if you are having the surgery elsewhere. This ensures that your doctor meets the standards set by the local hospital. Also ask about the qualifications of the person who will be administering anesthesia.

All five physicians at Wilmington Plastic Surgery are board certified in plastic surgery, meeting the strict criteria that designation conveys, is licensed by the state of North Carolina, and has full privileges at all local medical centers and surgery centers. Additionally, all have a great deal of additional education and training in various plastic surgery subspecialties.

Develop A Professional Relationship:

During the initial appointment, pay attention to how your doctor relates to you. Does he or she listen closely and offer solutions that you can understand? Do the doctor and the rest of the staff treat you with respect and dignity? If you are offered additional, unrelated procedures, be wary of the practice.

The largest and longest established practice of its kind in southeastern North Carolina, Wilmington Plastic Surgery has built a reputation for professionalism. The thousands of satisfied patients we’ve treated can attest to our approach of treating each individual with genuine concern and care.

Establish Relevant Experience:

Ask for actual before and after photographs that prove the physician has sufficient experience performing the procedure you are considering and that the results are satisfactory.

The database of actual patient photos is very large at WPS. Because we have been in practice more than 25 years and have been diligent about maintaining proficiency with new equipment and techniques, we offer more experience as a practice than anyone else in our region. And we’re happy to provide the photos as proof.

Organization and Information:

You want a physician who is forthright with all the information you need to make an educated decision, and who provides you with all the necessary paperwork and documents. The physician and staff should present information that is clear and concise, and be certain you sign a new consent form for every procedure, even if you’ve had the procedure before.

WPS maintains excellent records on all patients and procedures, and our friendly staff will be happy to answer questions and assist you with your documents and all information.

Health Check:

Your doctor should verify your overall physical and emotional health before performing any treatment or surgery. He or she should address any areas of concern, taking into consideration how these may be affected by your surgery.

You can rest assured this type of health evaluation is standard policy at WPS.