Choose a Plastic Surgeon You Can Trust
When choosing a plastic surgeon, many factors influence your decision, such as rapport during your consultation and referrals from family and friends. The most important consideration, though, is whether your surgeon is a member of the America Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Depending on location, either the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians of Canada certifies plastic surgeons that are members of the ASPS. The ABPS is the only board approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties that certifies physicians in plastic surgery of the face and body. Surgeons with ASPS certification meet the following requirements:
- Graduated from an accredited medical school
- Completed a minimum of six years of surgical training after completing medical school
- Completed at least three years of plastic surgery residency
- Passed comprehensive oral and written exams
- Operate in state-licensed, accredited, or Medicare-certified surgical facilities
- Complete continuing medical education yearly, including training in patient safety
America Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) certification
Many cosmetic surgeons claim to be board certified, but only ABPS oversees plastic surgeon training. Do not let boards with the words “cosmetic surgery” in their names confuse you; the American Board of Medical Specialties certifies no board whose name contains those words.
Take the time to research your plastic surgeon, including which board certifications he or she has. Luckily, verification is easy. Look for your chosen surgeon via a number of search options online, or call the American Society of Plastic Surgeons directly at (310) 273-3007.
After ensuring your surgeon has the desired certifications, look at the depth of his or her experience, especially as it relates to your chosen procedure. In addition, consider whether your surgeon’s facility is accredited, signifying its safety record is comparable to that of a hospital. Discussion of follow-up care is also important. The value of the consultation cannot be overstated. It is your opportunity to receive answers to your questions, so be thorough.
Dr. Vallecillos is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years have you been a practicing plastic surgeon?
My first year out of residency was in 2005
Describe your philosophy and approach to cosmetic enhancement and treatment of patients
Philosophy: Superior advice predicated upon evidence-based medicine, innovative insight, and efficient execution.
Treatment goals: Create a natural-appearing, balanced aesthetic enhancement that complements the patient’s unique features.
What’s most important to you when treating patients?
Comfort and security: We strive to achieve the ultimate customer experience. In surgery, much like professional sports, talent typically prevails. Championships however, are won by the teams who subscribe to organizational excellence. Accordingly, with good surgical planning and sound judgment, the majority of routine surgeries follow fairly predictable outcomes. Hence, customer service makes the experience complete. That’s what ultimately differentiates you as a surgeon from the masses. And that is our goal: to exceed our clients expectations.
What does a consultation with you entail?
Initially, patient information is gathered including photographs, salient medical history, and aesthetic goals. Next, I perform a comprehensive consultation utilizing videos and interactive patient education software. Following the consultation, the patient reviews the surgical procedure, peri-operative plans, and financials with the surgical consultant.
What steps does your office take to augment comfort?
We offer several features to augment comfort: A VIP waiting area, complimentary beverage menu, and Wi-Fi connectivity, and complementary usage of iPads.