Lifelong Consequences to Choosing an Unqualified Plastic Surgeon

Although plastic surgery promises the allure of an rejuvenated appearance, it’s important for patients to realize that cosmetic procedures are still surgeries and that any type of surgery involves certain risks–especially when uncertified practitioners perform procedures they are not trained for. In an effort to boost awareness about the dangers of selecting an unqualified doctor for plastic surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has launched a safety campaign aimed at facilitating consumer education.

The new public safety campaign comes at a time during which many people turn their thoughts to self-improvement. If your resolution this January is to give yourself a refreshed, naturally youthful look that turns back the clock without broadcasting that you’ve had work done, make sure you take the time to do your due diligence before selecting a plastic surgeon in Manhattan.

Raising public awareness through personal stories

The patient safety campaign from ASPS involves sharing the personal stories of patients who unwittingly underwent plastic surgery by doctors who were unqualified. For example, one New York City event planner, Nafsika Lourentzatos, suffered grievous injuries at the hands of a non-certified doctor. She received silicone breast injections, which she assumed were safe.

According to the ASPS press release, Lourentzatos said, “The doctor just promised me the world and beyond. And when you want something so badly, you overlook things and you tend to believe them.” As a result of this plastic surgery gone horribly wrong, the New York City woman had to undergo a double mastectomy.

Lourentzatos went on to say that she’s participating in the ASPS public awareness campaign because, “I want other women to know that they should do their homework before choosing a doctor because it’s so important. I just wish I had done that for myself.”

When performed by well-trained doctors who are board certified in plastic surgery, these procedures are generally quite safe. Unfortunately, botched plastic surgeries performed by unqualified physicians are becoming a more common trend.

How to research a plastic surgeon

Before having cosmetic work done, it’s important to thoroughly research your surgeon. Check that the surgeon has received board certification in plastic surgery. You can do this by visiting the website of the ASPS and searching for your doctor’s name. If you find that your surgeon is indeed board certified, you can rest assured that the doctor is required to perform procedures only in accredited facilities. Board certification also requires that the doctor adhere to a strict code of ethics, complete continuing professional education courses each year (including those covering patient safety), and have the proper training.

Additionally, a well-qualified plastic surgeon shouldn’t hesitate to provide proof of a track record of success. Many plastic surgeons provide “before and after” photographs that show the natural-looking results you can expect from your own procedure.

NYC plastic surgery

Dr. Preminger invites NYC residents and visitors to schedule a consultation to discuss the ample rewards and relatively low risks of plastic surgery. As an Ivy League-educated, board-certified plastic surgeon who has trained at some of the leading medical facilities in the U.S., Dr. Preminger is committed to maintaining the highest standards of patient care and safety. She is pleased to serve on the boards of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the New York Regional Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Patients from all over the world are drawn to Dr. Preminger because of her stellar track record of achieving natural-looking results, her exceptional training and qualifications, and her sensitivity to the concerns of women. If you would like to schedule a consultation to discuss breast enhancement, Botox, a butt lift or other procedures, call her Manhattan office at 212-706-1900.