Choosing the Right Cosmetic Surgeon:
Why Board Certification Matters
Cosmetic procedures are more popular than ever across Florida, but according to one of the state’s most respected surgeons, too many patients still don’t know how to choose a truly qualified doctor. And that, warns Dr. Michael Kim, can lead to serious consequences. Dr. Kim, a board-certified plastic and hand surgeon, says he frequently sees patients in the hospital after undergoing cosmetic work performed by doctors who are not certified in plastic surgery.
“We often see complications from procedures done by physicians who lack the proper surgical training. Patients assume all ‘cosmetic surgeons’ are the same — but that’s far from true.”
What “Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon” Really Means
The term cosmetic surgeon describes any licensed doctor who performs aesthetic procedures, regardless of specialty or training. A plastic surgeon, however, earns that title after completing years of rigorous education and testing.
To become board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a surgeon must:
- Complete at least six to ten years of surgical training, including a full plastic surgery residency.
- Pass extensive written and oral examinations.
- Uphold the professional and ethical standards set by the American Board of Medical Specialties — the same organization that certifies pediatricians, cardiologists, and other medical specialists.
“Board certification shows that a surgeon has not only trained in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, but also met rigorous national standards of safety, skill, and ethics,” Dr. Kim says.
Why Florida Patients Should Be Especially Cautious
Florida’s medical regulations can add to the confusion. The state allows almost any medical procedure to be performed in an office setting, as long as anesthesia is available.
“That’s where these pop-up clinics come from,” Dr. Kim explains. “Non-plastic surgeons advertise cosmetic services that they aren’t truly qualified to perform, and patients often don’t realize the risk until something goes wrong.”
If a complication occurs, those doctors may not have hospital privileges. “When that happens, the surgeon who did the procedure can’t treat you in the hospital. Another physician, often a board-certified plastic surgeon, ends up handling the emergency,” he adds.
How to Choose a Qualified Surgeon
The good news, says Dr. Kim, is that patients can protect themselves by asking the right questions before committing to any cosmetic procedure. He recommends the following checklist:
- What is the surgeon board-certified in?
- How many times overall and how recently has the doctor performed the procedure you want?
- Has the surgeon ever been disciplined by medical authorities?
- Does the doctor have hospital privileges for this procedure?
- Do AAAASF, AAAHC, or JCAHO accredit the surgical facility?
- If the quoted price is much lower than others, why?
- What do verified patient reviews say about their experience?
The Bottom Line
Cosmetic enhancements can be safe and rewarding when performed by a properly trained professional. But as Dr. Kim emphasizes, credentials matter. “Always verify your surgeon’s board certification and experience first,” he advises. “A few questions can be the difference between a dream result and a dangerous outcome.”
