3 Things to Look for In a Strong Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in St Louis

Here are three things about board certification that will help you select the right plastic surgeon for you.

1. A Plastic Surgeon Should Have ASPS Certification
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the world’s largest organization dedicated to plastic surgery. A plastic surgeon must go through a stringent education and postgraduate training to meet ASPS standards. This includes roughly three years of clinical surgical training and about three years of plastic surgery residency training, followed by oral and written exams to demonstrate “specific educational, training and professional standards for physicians within this specialty.”

2. A Plastic Surgeon Should Have Specialties
One of the main differences between a plastic surgeon and other medical professionals is specialization in certain cosmetic procedures. While it can be easy to assume that state medical boards identify who is qualified to perform procedures they advertise, certification and specialized training in cosmetic procedures ensures that a plastic surgeon is an expert and can help patients achieve their desired look.

3. A Plastic Surgeon Should Have a Diverse Portfolio
In addition to specialties, it’s wise to check that your preferred plastic surgeon has demonstrated expertise and professionalism by achieving a variety of certifications and by working in multiple environments. Dr. Terry Myckatyn, for example, is an associate professor of plastic and reconstructive surgery and is the director of Cosmetic and Breast Plastic Surgery at Washington University School of Medicine. He is also a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), which certifies for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the entire body. Dr. Myckatyn is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, president of the Saint Louis Association of Plastic Surgeons, and serves on several committees with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).

If you would like to learn more about finding a plastic surgeon in St. Louis, consider contacting the award-winning medical professionals at West County Plastic Surgeons. Call (314) 996-8800 to schedule a consultation today.