People opt to undergo plastic surgery procedures for a number of reasons — some may want to improve the way they look, while others may need reconstructive services. No matter the reason for plastic surgery, on of the biggest keys to a satisfactory outcome is choosing the best plastic surgeon possible. There are multiple plastic surgeons that offer a variety of cosmetic procedures in most cities, so it can be difficult to know which one to choose to do your surgery. Thus, you will need to narrow down your options and select the best surgeon for your procedure. Use the following tips to help you select a plastic surgeon.

Credentials

All plastic surgeons must graduate from medical school and then complete a surgical residency. After finishing residency, a physician must then undergo additional training to learn the skills to become a plastic surgeon. When all of this is done, a surgeon can take an exam in order to become board certified. When you are searching for a plastic surgeon, always take the time to ensure that they are board-certified and that the certification is current and valid.

Results

Most people want to look better after plastic surgery, so it is important to select a plastic surgeon who consistently has good results. The majority of plastic surgeons have a portfolio that consists of before and after photographs of past patients. When you have a consultation with a plastic surgeon, carefully review their portfolio to get an idea of the kind of work they do and what patients look like after surgery. Doing so can give you a good idea if a specific plastic surgeon can give you the look that you want.

Experience

Just like anything else, becoming an excellent plastic surgeon takes time and practice. Prior to deciding on which plastic surgeon to see for a cosmetic procedure, it is a good idea to take experience into account. A surgeon who has been performing cosmetic procedures for years most likely has the skills needed to provide excellent results.

Hospital Privileges

Many plastic surgeons have their own surgery centers, and a lot of procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis. However, you still want to make sure that you select a plastic surgeon who has privileges at one nearby hospital at least. Having privileges shows that a plastic surgeon meets all of the requirements set forth by an accredited hospital.