(StatePoint)

In the pursuit of beauty and self-enhancement, an increasing number of individuals are turning to plastic surgery.

However, beneath the promise of transformation lies a darker reality: the alarming rise of botched plastic surgeries due to an influx of undertrained, completely untrained, or reckless surgeries, most commonly undertaken by non-plastic surgeons.

“The consequences of choosing the wrong provider can be catastrophic,” says Dr. Alan Durkin, double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery. “The risks associated with botched plastic surgeries are not just physical; they extend to emotional and financial repercussions.”

According to Dr. Durkin, patients who undergo procedures under the care of inexperienced practitioners face the following risks:

  • Physical Harm: Complications such as infections, scarring, nerve damage, and anesthesia-related issues can result from poorly executed surgeries.
  • Emotional Toll: Dealing with unexpected outcomes can lead to depression, anxiety, and a loss of self-esteem, reversing the procedure’s intended benefits.
  • Financial Burden: Correcting botched surgeries often requires additional procedures and expenses that may not be covered by insurance, leading to significant financial strain.

Choosing a Safe Practitioner

Amidst the risks, there are crucial steps you can take to mitigate them and ensure a safe cosmetic surgery experience. Dr. Durkin provides these factors to consider when selecting a practitioner:

  1. Credentials and Accreditation

Plastic surgery should be undertaken by board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Verify that your surgeon is board-certified by accredited organizations such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Certification ensures that the surgeon has undergone at least six years of rigorous training and meets high standards of competency and ethics. Dual board certification offers an even greater degree of safety, but those practitioners are not in every market.

  1. Experience and Expertise

Research the surgeon’s experience performing the procedure you’re considering. Experienced surgeons possess technical skill and a track record of successful outcomes and patient satisfaction. Ask about their specialization within plastic surgery and inquire about their frequency of performing the procedure. Further, ensure that your physician has hospital privileges for backup resources and that they carry malpractice insurance. It’s a big red flag to provide aesthetic procedures without malpractice insurance.

  1. Facility Accreditation

Ensure your surgical facility is accredited by recognized organizations like the AAAASF, State Certification, Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care or the Joint Commission. Accredited facilities adhere to strict safety standards and protocols, reducing complication risk during and after surgery. Most higher-end facilities, similar to hospitals, offer dual facility certification.

  1. Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Read reviews. Websites like Google, US News and World Report and Healthgrades provide valuable insights into patient feedback, outcomes, and overall satisfaction with the surgeon and their practice.

  1. Consultation and Communication

Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals, expectations and concerns. A reputable surgeon will take the time to thoroughly assess your candidacy for surgery, explain the procedure in detail, and address all your questions regarding risks, recovery and expected outcomes. Also interview the staff. Make sure you are comfortable with the process and personnel at your facility of choice.

  1. Transparency and Red Flags

Red flags include discounted prices that seem too good to be true, pressure to undergo multiple procedures simultaneously, and promises of unrealistic results. A trustworthy surgeon prioritizes safety and provides transparent information about potential risks and limitations. Beware of clinics that do not provide adequate information about your procedure.

Legislative and Regulatory Measures

In response to the rise in botched plastic surgeries, legislative efforts are underway to enhance patient protections and regulate the industry more effectively. Initiatives like Senate Bill 1188 aim to strengthen oversight and ensure that only qualified professionals perform cosmetic procedures, protecting patients from harm and exploitation.

“Choosing to undergo plastic surgery is a personal decision that should be approached with careful consideration and thorough research. By educating yourself about the risks, selecting a qualified practitioner, and advocating for stronger regulations, you can achieve safer, more satisfying outcomes,” says Dr. Durkin.