So, you think about cosmetic plastic surgeries. If it’s only a slight change, then that is fine. Picking the right doctor is like looking for a needle hidden in a stack of hay. But don’t worry; I’ve got your back.

Let’s talk about credentials first. You wouldn’t hire a plumber who isn’t licensed to fix your plumbing, right? Your body is no different. Verify the board-certified status of your surgeon. Search for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and similar organizations. These individuals have cleared rigorous exams and gone through a lot of hoops.

Second, experience counts a lot. If you are getting a rhinoplasty, you want a surgeon who has done hundreds and not just a couple. Ask them how many procedures have they performed, then look at before-andafter photos. This is similar to Yelp, but for your skin.

Now let’s personalize it – literally. You should schedule consultations with more than one surgeon. You’re not on speed dating here; ask as many questions as you want and feel out their vibe. Listen to them? Are they tolerant? You do not want someone who rushes out of the room faster than you say “anesthesia.”

Transparency, when discussing consultations, is crucial. A good doctor will not sugarcoat anything. They will state the risks, benefits, and costs. It’s probably a scam if something sounds too good.

Also, don’t forget to consider your hospital privileges. Surgeons are entitled to access accredited hospitals should things go wrong. As if you were walking on a thin wire, having a hospital nearby would be like having a net.

You can get a lot of value from word-ofmouth. Have you talked to your family and friends about similar procedures? Their firsthand knowledge can be more valuable than any online review.

You should also be comfortable with the office staff. The nurses, office staff and pre-op appointments are all crucial to the post-op recovery. Imagine dealing with rude or dismissive people when you’re in recovery and cranky.

Budgeting is an entirely different beast. Avoid the temptation to pick the cheapest choice. Discount prices come with higher risks and lower results.

Beauty is subjective. What suits one person may not suit someone else at all. Consider each surgeon’s results carefully. Do they match what you have in mind for yourself as a patient?

Remember your gut feelings? It is worth listening to! Listen to that inner “Nope” voice when something doesn’t feel right during any phase of this process.

Technology has evolved in leaps & bounds too over the last few years! Virtual consultations due to tight schedules or geographical limitations are becoming more and more common. If possible, however, an in-person discussion is always better!

Final point: Don’t hurry into anything, just because other people seem to be happy about their results on Instagram. Healing takes a while; transformations in the real world aren’t achieved by applying filters within seconds.

It’s a long road to find the right plastic surgeon for YOU. It’s time to go hunting!