The single most important factor in the success of any aesthetic, cosmetic procedure is the medical professional that you select. Many people are surprised to learn that some doctors performing cosmetic procedures today have had no formal training. That’s why you need to ask the right questions before you make a decision to proceed with either surgery or cosmetic enhancement. The following are some important questions you should ask when choosing your Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist.

Is the doctor credited by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the appropriate American Board?

Specialists with this certification have completed a minimum of five years of training following medical school, including an approved residency program in plastic surgery or dermatology. After training, the specialist must pass comprehensive oral and written exams for certification. FRCSC (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada) and ABPS (American Board of Plastic Surgery) certification indicates a surgeon’s qualifications and expertise in performing reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery of the face and the entire body. FRCPC (Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada) and ABD (American Board of Dermatologists) indicate a physician’s qualifications in dermatology and acknowledges him or her as a skin expert.

Does the plastic surgeon have appropriate hospital privileges?

Even if you are planning to have your surgery in your doctor’s office or at a surgery centre, it is important to find out if your surgeon has operating privileges at an accredited hospital for the same procedure you would be having performed. Before granting these types of privileges, hospital review committees evaluate a surgeon’s training and competency for these specific procedures.

Is the specialist familiar with the latest procedures?

If there is an aesthetic procedure that you have heard about from another source, such as a magazine article or television program, be sure to ask your doctor about it. Doctors Sapra and Khanna can advise you on whether a specific technique would be beneficial for you. If there are any problems or safety concerns, they will be able to alert you to them.

Above all, you should feel comfortable enough to confide in your plastic surgeon or dermatologist by thoroughly discussing your goals, expectations and concerns. Together, Dr. Khanna and Dr. Sapra, and our staff will help you make the choices that are right for you. Our most important job is to assist you throughout this process to achieve a beautiful cosmetic result, while maintaining the highest safety standards.