Cosmetic Surgery

Sandpoint, Hayden, Coeur d'Alene and North Idaho

How to Choose a Plastic or Cosmetic Surgeon

When considering cosmetic surgery, you are faced with many exciting yet difficult choices. Choosing the right surgeon is the most important decision you will make. Your surgeon will help guide you through the entire process with care and support.

Plastic or cosmetic surgeon, what's the difference?

The difference involves surgical training and skill level. Plastic surgeons are qualified and trained, during a minimum of five years of residency, to perform the full breadth of cosmetic (or “aesthetic”) and reconstructive procedures. This is all we do. However, many so-called “cosmetic surgeons” have little or no standardized training in plastic surgery, and therefore they do not possess the education or skill level necessary to consistently provide safe, high-quality operations. Plastic surgery addresses body and facial form and function. Some of these physicians may have only been trained in gynecology, family practice, dermatology, or dental health. While we respect their chosen fields, many plastic surgeons believe that they simply do not have the strong educational background, experience, and continuing medical education to perform safe, high-quality plastic surgery procedures.

When you meet with your prospective surgeon

• Talk openly with the surgeon and staff and ask questions. They should be willing to answer all of your questions.
• Always ask your surgeon about his or her training in the procedure you are interested in.
• View before and after pictures of patients who have had the procedure you are seeking.
• The surgeon and staff should be willing to spend time with you. You should not feel rushed.
• Ask about the education process. Will they help you learn more about the procedure? Will your surgeon provide before and after instructions for you to follow?
• Will the surgeon be directly involved in your care after surgery and any follow up care you may need?
• Do you feel welcome and comfortable? You should!
• Clues that this surgeon may not be for you

Your consultation feels like a sales pitch

• You cannot view before and after photos of actual patients
• The surgeon pushes you to choose a much more extensive procedure than you want
• The surgeon is reluctant to answer questions
• The surgeon is insulated by staff or always unavailable
• Very low prices that seem too good to be true

You should come away from your consultation feeling comfortable, relaxed and excited. All of your questions should be answered. You should feel like your surgeon was really listening to you and wants you to have a positive experience. You should trust and feel confident about the surgeon’s abilities.

Dr. Michelle Spring provides surgical expertise and exceptional patient care in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in Sandpoint, Ponderay, and all of Northern Idaho. With extensive training in breast surgery, body contouring, and facial surgery, she offers cosmetic procedures with an emphasis on natural results, safety and personal attention to your individual goals. If you are considering cosmetic surgery, learn more by viewing our Plastic Surgery Photo Gallery or FAQ's page, and contact Dr. Spring today to schedule your brow lift consultation.

Back to Top