Direct Answer
Choose a plastic surgeon who holds ABPS board certification, has documented surgical volume in your specific procedure, and whose before-and-after gallery reflects results aligned with your aesthetic goals — not the most dramatic results, but the most natural ones.
Why board certification matters
Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is the single most important credential to verify when choosing a plastic surgeon. ABPS certification requires at least six years of accredited surgical training — including a minimum of three years in plastic surgery — passing rigorous written and oral examinations, and ongoing continuing education to maintain certification.
You can verify any U.S. physician's board certification at certificationmatters.org, the official lookup tool of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
Critically, the term “cosmetic surgeon” is not a protected medical title. Any licensed physician — including those who completed residencies in unrelated specialties — can legally market themselves as a cosmetic surgeon. ABPS certification is the only credential that guarantees formal plastic surgery training.
Questions to ask at your consultation
How many of this specific procedure do you perform per year?
Volume in your specific procedure is a stronger indicator of expertise than overall surgical volume.
Do you perform the surgery yourself or does a resident assist?
In academic settings, residents may perform key portions of the procedure. Confirm who will be operating.
Can I see before-and-after photos from patients with similar anatomy to mine?
Generic galleries are easy to assemble. Photos of patients with similar features tell you what to realistically expect.
What is your complication rate for this procedure?
Experienced surgeons track and disclose their complication rates honestly.
What happens if I am not happy with my results?
Ask specifically about revision policy, cost, and timing.
Are you board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
Always specify ABPS — generic claims of “board certified” may refer to non-ABMS boards.
Red flags to watch for
- Surgeon cannot provide recent before-and-after photos
- No hospital privileges to perform the procedure (a strong indicator of credential gaps)
- Pressure to decide or book at the consultation
- Before-and-after photos look uniform or identical across patients
- Claims of being “board certified” without specifying the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Featured Haute MD plastic surgeons
Haute MD has independently vetted and editorially featured a curated network of board-certified plastic surgeons across the United States. The physicians featured in the sidebar of this guide reflect leading practitioners in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.
Related reading
- Browse the Haute MD plastic surgery network
- Best plastic surgeons in New York
- What is a deep plane facelift?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon?
A plastic surgeon has completed a residency in plastic surgery and is typically certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). A “cosmetic surgeon” is a non-protected title — any licensed physician can use it regardless of their residency or board certification. For surgical procedures, always confirm ABPS certification.
How do I verify a plastic surgeon's board certification?
Search the physician at certificationmatters.org — the official ABMS verification tool — or directly at the American Board of Plastic Surgery website (abplasticsurgery.org). Both are free and authoritative.
Should I get multiple consultations before choosing a plastic surgeon?
Yes. Two to three consultations is standard for elective cosmetic surgery. It helps you compare surgical philosophies, communication styles, and proposed plans — and confirms the recommendation is consistent across credentialed surgeons.
How much does plastic surgery cost?
Costs vary widely by procedure, surgeon experience, and geography. A rhinoplasty in New York may range from $15,000–$50,000+, a deep plane facelift $35,000–$100,000+, and a breast augmentation $8,000–$20,000+. Quotes should include surgeon fee, facility fee, anesthesia, and follow-up care.