Is that for real? Establishing trusted resources for your plastic surgery journey
Every journey starts with one small step. In your plastic surgery journey, that step typically marks the point at which you decide you want to change something, but where do you go from there? Some people instantly know what they want and their ideal result. Others need a little help finding the procedures that will work for them to give them the look they want to achieve. No matter where you land on the spectrum, you need trusted resources.
Today, getting in your car and driving without consulting a GPS or an automated navigation system would be nearly unthinkable. The same is true for your plastic surgery journey. You do not want to begin without a roadmap to help you reach your destination. Credible resources are the roadmap that can help you sort fact from fiction and reality from internet hype and misinformation.
Establishing trusted resources for your plastic surgery journey
What is a trusted resource? A trusted and credible resource is a source of information that relays accurate, factual and unbiased information about a specific topic. Resources should be reputable and have a solid history of delivering information supported by evidence and facts.
Searching for accurate and reputable information has changed significantly. Gone are the days when you'd search a card catalog for books and reference material about a particular topic. The Internet, and now more than ever, social media platforms, are places where people congregate and exchange information. Unfortunately, not all of this information is accurate or credible. You cannot know if an influencer is stating facts, attempting to sell you something, or telling a tall tale for the clicks, likes, and internet clout.
So, where can you turn for up-to-date, reliable information to help you make informed decisions about your plastic surgery journey, such as choosing a doctor and which procedures may provide the desired results?
"I used to tell patients that video is a great way to assess results because it was harder to edit, but that is no longer true," said Kristy Hamilton, MD. "Before and after photos, or otherwise, can be doctored these days."
The internet has become the "Wild West" of information, in some respects. It provides everything you could possibly want to know, but with little oversight into the quality of the content you are being served.
"Check for consistent lighting in the images," said Dr. Hamilton. "A surgeon's reputation would then be the next important factor, but keep in mind that reviews also can be bought, so actually read them to assess for authenticity."
Some websites are "pay-to-play," meaning you need to pay the site to have content featured, and much of the content is not independently verified or checked for accuracy.
Learning more about plastic surgery procedures
If you are looking for more information about plastic surgery procedures or related topics, some websites can offer you factual and reliable information.
Dr. Hamilton recommends that patients check the ASPS website.
There was a time when websites with a ".org" in their domain name indicated that they were associated with a nonprofit or educational organization. These websites were known to be more accurate and reputable than those with a generic ".com" address. However, that has shifted recently, and more for-profit businesses and community groups have acquired .org web addresses, blurring the lines between credibility and attempting to sell you something.
Use sound judgment and look for reputable professional organizations or academic databases when searching for credible sources of information.
Learning more about your plastic surgeon
If you are searching for more information about plastic surgeons in your area, several resources are available that you should check before scheduling an initial consultation.
"Check the ABPS site to make sure your potential plastic surgeon is listed there," said Dr. Hamilton. "Check your state's medical board to make sure the surgeon is in good standing and confirm board certification in plastic surgery. That's information that's solid."
ABPS is the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certification matters! It is crucial to ensure that the plastic surgeon you are interested in has board certification, meaning they have the knowledge, experience and educational background to deliver high-quality patient care and manage potential complications.
Patients should also check their state's medical board to ensure that the surgeon they are interested in is in good standing and to confirm board certification in plastic surgery.
Dr. Hamilton also recommended searching for a surgeon locally because they have a greater presence and a well-established reputation.
"Friends or colleagues may know the quality of their work," said Dr. Hamilton, adding that patients searching for a plastic surgeon ask their family doctor for referrals. "I know I receive a lot of referrals from OB-GYNs in our community because they see the results of mommy makeover surgeries from a number of different doctors!"
Take the information you gather from social media and other platforms with a grain of salt, considering their primary purpose – entertainment. They can help spark ideas and inspire you, but should never be taken at face value or as gospel without a little extra due diligence on your part.
To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.
