There are many doctors who have little training performing cosmetic plastic surgery, so the credentials of your plastic surgeon are paramount. You will hear “the doctor is board-certified” but if your doctor is board certified in pediatrics that would be a red flag. Make sure your plastic surgeon is certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery, and not a sound-alike board.
Take your time; although it’s elective surgery, it’s still surgery, and typically not something in which you need or should rush into. Do your research with regards to the specific plastic surgery procedure or medical spa treatment you’re interested in. Once you know both what you hope to achieve and how you hope to achieve it, schedule consultations with several plastic surgeons in Santa Rosa.
At your consultation, you will not only have the opportunity to learn more about a specific procedure or treatment but ask questions of the plastic surgeon. For instance:
• Are they board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
• How long have they performed plastic surgery, specifically the procedure you’re interested in?
• Do they use board-certified anesthesiologists?
• Do they have a recovery room nurse who is there solely to monitor you in the recovery room?
• Can you see a photo of the recovery room and of the operating room?
• Plastic Surgery Associates recommends that you see several different board certified plastic surgeons, as it will help you to not only better understand why you’re seeking plastic surgery, but you’ll come to discover exactly what it is you’re looking for in a plastic surgeon. Patients tell Dr. Canales and Dr. Furnas they’re looking for integrity, caring, compassion and perfectionism. What are you looking for? Ask questions and don’t stop until you have your answers.
Yes! Unfortunately, here in California, it is legal for any physician with a medical license to claim to be a plastic surgeon. Additionally, there are many sound-alike boards, allowing some doctors to make claims as to super-specialization. Only one board is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties and the American Medical Association for the certification of plastic surgeons – the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Furnas and Dr. Canales are each certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Additionally, they are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.Physicians certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery:
• Have received specialized residency training
• Have successfully completed rigorous oral and written examinations in plastic surgery
• Are held to high ethical standards
• Are required to maintain their skills through continuing education
• To ensure your plastic surgeon’s memberships, as well as his or her training, you can contact the state medical board, the American Board of Plastic Surgery (215-587-9322), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (888 4-PLASTIC) or the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (888 272-7711).
Prior to your consultation, you’ll receive online forms to complete before you arrive for a quick, easy check-in. During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to:
• Meet your surgeon, and the Plastic Surgery Associates team
• Review your medical history to ensure your safety
• Share your plastic surgery goals or concerns
• Receive a physical examination
• Discuss your procedure options and recovery needs
• Go over procedure costs and financing options
• Optionally, schedule chosen procedure(s)
We encourage you to ask any questions you may have during your consultation. Your safety and peace of mind is our number one priority and we look forward to being a part of your surgery journey. Watch this short consultation video clip for an inside look at the consultation process.
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