If you have a physical condition that requires reconstructive surgery, or you’re looking to change your appearance, you’ll need to visit a plastic surgeon. Many plastic surgeons offer both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, and it may be difficult to sort through the doctors available in your area. Fortunately, here are some tips to help you narrow down your search.

Years of Experience

Plastic surgery requires five or more years of residency beyond medical school. Once doctors have completed residency, they must pass an exam to practice plastic surgery in their state. After completing the exam, doctors may to choose to spend a year or two specializing in a specific area such as breasts, craniofacial or hands. Beyond educational training, look for plastic surgeons in Raleigh North Carolina that have years of experience. A surgeon who has performed procedures on thousands of patients will be more skilled when it comes time to perform your surgery.

Board-Certification

Another factor to consider is board-certification. Many people wonder if a plastic surgeon is required to have special credentials to perform plastic surgery. A doctor may be certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery with just one year of certification. In contrast, the highest level of certification is offered by the American Board of Plastic Surgery: this certification requires a doctor to have six or more years of residency training. For better results, insist that your plastic surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Financing Options

Insurance coverage for plastic surgery depends on a variety of factors. Reconstructive procedures tend to have greater insurance benefits because they are medically necessary. However, the lines between necessary and nonessential are sometimes unclear. Whether your insurance covers your procedure or not, look for a plastic surgeon who offers individual financing options.

There are numerous plastic surgeons available. Fortunately, finding a plastic surgeon that you can trust is possible by using these tips.