Plastic Surgeons and Members of ASPS

A few weeks back, I addressed a question that I am often asked, which is what is required to be a board-certified plastic surgeon. I also mentioned during that blog post that there are 24 medical specialty boards recognized by the America Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).  I know this can be confusing when trying to research online since many websites just state that their doctor or doctors are board certified but often don’t state of what specialty they are board certified.

To help confirm whether a doctor is board certified in plastic surgery, I would suggest that you also look to see if they are a member of the ASPS. ASPS is an acronym for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and not only must these members be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), but they must also meet the following rigorous standards:

• Board certification by the ABPS or in Canada by The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada®

• Complete at least six years of surgical training following medical school with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery residency training

• Pass comprehensive oral and written exams

• Graduate from an accredited medical school

• Complete continuing medical education, including patient safety each year

• Perform surgery in accredited, state-licensed, or Medicare-certified surgical facilities

By choosing a member of the ASPS, you can be assured that you are choosing a qualified, highly trained plastic surgeon and not just one that performs cosmetic surgery.

I am proud to have been a member of the ASPS since 1999, and I encourage you to look for the ASPS Member Surgeon Symbol of Excellence (see photo) when making your choice for a plastic surgery procedure.