Your choice of surgeon is the single most important factor in your results. Unlike other purchases, you can't return a surgery—and revisions are often more complex and expensive than the original procedure.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find a qualified, skilled surgeon who's right for your specific goals. Whether you're considering rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, or any other procedure, these principles apply universally.
Board Certification: The Non-Negotiable First Step
The first thing to verify is board certification. This isn't just a formality—it represents years of specialized training and a commitment to ongoing education. For plastic surgery, look for certification from one of these boards:
ABPS (American Board of Plastic Surgery)
The gold standard for plastic surgeons. Requires 6+ years of surgical training including 3 years specifically in plastic surgery.
ABFPRS (American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
Specialized certification for facial procedures. Surgeons typically have ENT or plastic surgery backgrounds.
ABCS (American Board of Cosmetic Surgery)
Legitimate board with a different training path. Verify the surgeon's specific procedural experience.
You can verify any surgeon's certification at certificationmatters.org.
Before & After Photos: Reading Between the Lines
Before and after photos are your best preview of potential results—but only if you know how to evaluate them critically. Many practices only showcase their best outcomes, so you need to look deeper.
Green Flags
- Multiple angles (front, profile, 3/4 view)
- Consistent lighting and camera distance
- Patients with similar anatomy to yours
- Results at multiple time points (1, 6, 12 months)
- Range of outcomes, not just "home runs"
!Red Flags
- Only showing "best case" results
- Heavy editing, filters, or makeup differences
- Refusing to show photos during consultation
- No diversity in patient body types or skin tones
- Photos clearly taken by different photographers
“Ask to see photos of patients who had a similar starting point to you. If they can't provide any, that's a data point worth noting.”
Where to Find Honest Reviews
Patient reviews are valuable but require critical reading. Different platforms have different biases, so cross-referencing is essential. For a deeper dive into this topic, read our guide on whether RealSelf reviews are trustworthy.
Google Reviews
Harder to manipulate than specialized platforms. Includes patients who never used cosmetic surgery websites.
Most Reliabler/PlasticSurgery, r/rhinoplasty, and procedure-specific subreddits. Anonymous = more honest feedback.
Most CandidRealSelf
Great for before/after photos, but be skeptical of profiles with only 5-star reviews. Read more about RealSelf reliability
Use With CautionQuestions to Ask During Your Consultation
Your consultation is your chance to evaluate the surgeon as a person, not just their credentials. Come prepared with questions—a good surgeon will welcome them.
Consultation Checklist
About Their Experience
- How many of this specific procedure do you perform per year?
- What is your revision rate for this procedure?
- Can I see before/afters of patients with similar anatomy?
About Your Procedure
- What technique do you recommend for my case, and why?
- What are the specific risks based on my anatomy?
- What results can I realistically expect?
About Aftercare
- Who do I contact if I have concerns after surgery?
- What's included in follow-up appointments?
- How do you handle complications or needed revisions?
Virtual Consultations: A Modern Approach
Virtual consultations have become increasingly popular and offer several advantages for the research phase:
- Consult with surgeons anywhere without travel costs
- Review recorded consultations at your own pace
- Easier to get multiple opinions quickly
- No pressure environment—decide in your own space
A virtual consultation doesn't replace an in-person exam for final surgical planning, but it's an excellent way to narrow down your options before committing time and money to in-person visits.
Get Virtual Consultations on Afters
Submit photos and describe your goals. Surgeons review your case and send personalized video responses—no scheduling required.
Browse SurgeonsWhy You Should Always Get Multiple Opinions
We recommend consulting with at least 2-3 surgeons before making a decision. Here's why this matters:
Different Approaches
Surgeons may recommend different techniques or have varying aesthetic preferences.
Price Comparison
Pricing varies significantly. Use our [quote checker](/tools/quote-checker) to compare.
Better Questions
Each consultation teaches you what to ask. You'll be more informed by the third.
Personality Fit
You'll be working closely with this person. Make sure you're comfortable.
Use this guide to improve the conversation—not replace it.
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