Gathering Names

Friends
If you know someone who's had a procedure like the one you're considering, talk to him or her.

Doctors
Your family doctor may be able to recommend a plastic surgeon.

Nurses
If you know an operating room nurse, you can probably get a well-informed opinion on surgeons he or she has worked with.

Hospitals
Call a respected hospital in your community and ask for the names of board-certified plastic surgeons on staff.

ASPRS
The Plastic Surgery Information Service of the ASPRS is an excellent source of names. Call (800) 635-0635. Or click on the web address to visit us at www.plasticsurgery.org

Special Directories
Available in most public libraries: The Directory of Medical Specialists, and The Compendium of Certified Medical Specialists.

Checking Credentials

Training
While your plastic surgeon may choose to concentrate on a limited number of procedures, a comprehensive background search gives a solid foundation to his or her skills.

Board Certification
Patients are encouraged to consider a doctor certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Consultation/Interview

If you've narrowed your list down to two or three surgeons, you might want to visit them all for an initial consultation and compare personalities, opinions on the type of surgery you should have, and fees.