Why choose a board-certified plastic surgeon
March 23, 2026Categories: Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Care
Overview: Board-certified plastic surgeons have extensive surgical training, operate in accredited surgery centers and have lower complication rates. Decrease your risk and make credentials a top consideration when choosing a plastic surgeon.
What does ‘board certified’ actually mean?
A plastic surgeon board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery has:
- Completed accredited medical school.
- Completed years of specialized surgical residency training.
- Passed rigorous written and oral exams.
- Maintained ongoing education and standards.
- Been evaluated on ethics and patient safety.
This is very different from a self-described cosmetic surgeon, which isn’t always a regulated specialty title.
Five reasons to choose board certified
Safety
- Extensive surgical training
- Better prepared for complications or emergencies
Expertise in anatomy and aesthetics
Deep understanding of:
- Facial/body structure
- Tissue handling
- Healing dynamics
- How to achieve natural-looking results
Proper surgical facilities
Typically operate in:
- Accredited surgical centers
- Hospitals
- Regulated environments with trained staff
Ethical standards
- Required to follow professional guidelines
- Emphasize patient suitability and informed consent
- More likely to say "no" if a procedure is not appropriate
Better outcomes and lower complication risk
While no surgery is risk free, training and certification are strongly associated with:
- Lower complication rates
- Better aesthetic results
- Appropriate follow-up care
Why this matters
Cosmetic surgery is still real surgery –- with anesthesia, infection risk, bleeding and healing complications – so your provider’s qualifications directly impact your health. Your health is a top priority. Decrease your risk and make credentials a top consideration when choosing a plastic surgeon.
Learn more about MercyOne Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery services.
This blog was medically reviewed by a MercyOne plastic surgery provider.
