Check credentials. State laws
permit any licensed physician to be
called a "plastic" or "cosmetic"
surgeon, even if not trained as a
surgeon. Parents should look for
certification by the American Board
of Plastic Surgery. If the doctor
operates in an ambulatory or office
based facility, the facility should
be accredited. Additionally, the
surgeon should have operating
privileges in an accredited hospital
for the same procedure being
considered.
Explore risks and expected
recovery times. Teens and their
parents should understand the risks
of surgery, postoperative
restrictions on activity and typical
recovery times.