Board Certification and Experience
Plastic surgery after weight loss is a key part of a life-changing journey. The investment you're making in transforming your body and your life is profound. Don't discount the importance of body contouring surgery to highlight the work you have already done. These procedures require a highly skilled surgeon, so take the time to research the qualifications of the plastic surgeons you may be considering.
Cosmetic Surgeon or Plastic Surgeon
The terms "cosmetic surgeon" and "plastic surgeon" aren't interchangeable; they actually represent two very different levels of specialization. In most states, including California, almost any physician can call himself or herself a cosmetic surgeon and offer facial procedures, breast augmentation and even surgery after weight loss. While many of these doctors do good work, their levels of training and experience vary quite a bit.
You'll want to choose a plastic surgeon for your post weight loss body contouring. Plastic surgeons complete residencies focused specifically on plastic surgery, meaning they have years of experience working under the guidance of experts in the field. Most perform hundreds of reconstructive and cosmetic procedures under supervision before entering private practice. Plastic surgeons in private practice may perform cosmetic surgery mostly or exclusively, and they may even call themselves cosmetic surgeons. But those who perform cosmetic surgery without formal training in plastic surgery should not refer to themselves as plastic surgeons.
Board Certification
Many of the surgeons you research may say they're board certified or members of various professional societies. The qualification that matters most is certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). ABPS certification ensures that your physician has a college degree and a degree from an accredited medical school, a minimum of five years surgical/plastic surgery internship and residency and two years of plastic surgery practice. After those standards have been met, an ABPS candidate must pass rigorous oral and written exams and peer reviews.
Membership in other organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), also tells you something about a prospective physician. ASPS membership is a prestigious distinction. The ASPS accepts only ABPS certified physicians who are sponsored by other members and who meet strict ethical standards. Members of the ASPS are required to attend regular meetings and continue their education.
Dr. Kaufman, your Sacramento Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Kaufman's training includes graduating from Harvard Medical School and completing a combined general/plastic surgery residency at Stanford Medical School. He was chosen for an additional year of fellowship training as an Interplast surgeon, performing reconstructive surgery for children and adults in the far corners of the world who otherwise would have no access to such services. He continues to volunteer his time to help people in need of reconstructive procedures each year.
Dr. Kaufman is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also an active member of the ASPS, concentrating a good portion of his continuing education on post weight loss plastic surgery.
Whether you're from hundreds of miles away or you live right here in a Central Valley town like Modesto, for post weight loss plastic surgery you owe it to yourself to find out more about Dr. Kaufman. Request an appointment online or by phone at (916) 235-8838. He understands you'll have questions about procedures, results, safety and his credentials as a plastic surgeon, and he looks forward to helping you learn.
