Why You Should Select a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery can be exciting — but for many patients, it can also trigger anxious thoughts. For example: Will I be safe during the surgery? Will my results look natural? Will I have a smooth recovery?

If that sounds familiar, you’re not overthinking it — these concerns are valid, and they highlight just how important it is to choose a surgeon you can fully trust. Today, with so many doctors (including non-specialists) marketing cosmetic procedures, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is more important than ever.

To help you better understand plastic surgery credentials, here’s a breakdown of what this term means, the benefits of choosing a board-certified cosmetic surgeon vs. general surgeon, and questions to ask before booking your procedure.

What Does “Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon” Mean?

Every surgeon in the U.S. is required to undergo a significant amount of schooling, complete a residency, and pass licensing exams — but not all surgeons are created equal. When it comes to cosmetic procedures, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon makes a tremendous difference. That’s because, in addition to the requisite bachelor’s degree, medical school, and residency, these professionals also must complete an accredited plastic surgery training program, rigorous exams developed by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), and continue to meet the board’s strict ethical standards.

Other surgeons may be certified in a different field (or not certified at all), which means they may not have the same level of experience and expertise in performing the complex techniques involved in cosmetic surgery. It’s also important to note that a board-certified plastic surgeon differs from a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. The cosmetic surgeon certification requires significantly less training and fewer exams than an ABPS certification and has no continuing education requirements.

Additionally, some plastic surgeons — like Dr. Berry Fairchild — also choose to pursue a fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery in Texas. Although this step isn’t required for certification by the ABPS, completing a fellowship helps surgeons further refine their skills and develop more specialized expertise.

“There’s a huge difference between someone who performs cosmetic procedures and someone who is trained in the art and science of plastic surgery. Board certification ensures patients are getting a surgeon who understands both the technical and aesthetic demands of each procedure,” says Dr. Fairchild.

In other words, if you want the best of the best, opt for a board-certified plastic surgeon — and preferably one who has pursued a fellowship in their specialization.

Why Board Certification Matters for Your Safety & Results

Earning an ABPS certification is about more than a title. This distinction also serves as proof that a surgeon is deeply committed to excellence in their specialization.

Here are a few things that set board-certified plastic surgeons apart from their peers:

Rigorous Training & Education

Board-certified plastic surgeons undergo some of the most intensive training in medicine, including:

• A bachelor’s degree
• Four years of medical school at an accredited university
• Six years of surgical training
• A highly competitive plastic and reconstructive surgery residency
• Ongoing continuing education

After completing educational and training requirements, surgeons must also pass comprehensive written board exams and a 2-day oral exam that evaluates their knowledge, ethics, and approaches to various reconstructive and cosmetic challenges.

Expertise in Advanced Surgical Techniques

The ABPS is committed to ensuring that every surgeon they certify can meet the highest standards of plastic surgery. So, in addition to testing surgeons’ anatomical expertise, they also test how well they navigate complex surgical situations and their skills across a broad range of reconstructive and aesthetic procedures.

To become certified, surgeons must demonstrate technical precision, clinical judgment, and the ability to tailor advanced techniques to each patient’s unique anatomy and goals.

Commitment to Patient Safety & Ethical Standards

Board-certified plastic surgeons must consistently meet extremely strict ethical and safety standards to earn and maintain their certifications.

This includes (but is not limited to):

• Operating in accredited surgical facilities
• Adhering to evidence-based practices
• Completing continuing education requirements focused on patient safety

Lower Risk of Complications & Revision Surgeries

At its foundation, the American Board of Plastic Surgery exists to protect patients by raising the standard of care, minimizing risks, and ensuring better outcomes across the board.

By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, patients can feel confident that they’re working with a specialist who has proven their commitment to patient safety and a willingness to evolve as surgical science advances.

“My goal is always to deliver the safest, most natural results possible. Board certification reflects a surgeon’s dedication to staying at the forefront of evolving techniques — and that’s what patients deserve,” Dr. Fairchild adds.

Questions to Ask Before Booking a Surgical Procedure

Dr. Fairchild believes patients should always feel informed and empowered in their decision to undergo a cosmetic procedure. To help build confidence in your choice, here are a few questions you should ask any prospective surgeon:

1. Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
   A certification from the ABPS confirms your surgeon has completed accredited training in plastic surgery and passed rigorous exams. It also confirms they’ve met the board’s education, ethics, skill, and patient safety standards.
2. How often do you perform this procedure?
   Experience is one of the most valuable assets a surgeon can have. Additionally, techniques evolve, and you need assurance that your surgeon has not only performed a procedure many times but has also performed it recently.
3. Where will my procedure be performed?
   Environment plays a major role in surgical safety, which is why it’s important you confirm that your procedure will take place in an accredited facility that meets standards for cleanliness, staffing, and emergency protocols.
4. What are the risks of this procedure?
   Every surgery has risks, but a trustworthy surgeon will walk you through potential challenges and explain how they work to minimize those complications. Transparency is a hallmark of surgical ethics and shows your surgeon is committed to earning your trust and ensuring your safety.
5. Can I see before-and-after photos?
   Visual proof is important. Looking at real patient results can give you insight into your surgeon’s aesthetic style so you can make sure it mirrors your expectations. Be sure to ask for cases that match your specific goals and body type.

Book with a Trusted Expert Today!

Dr. Berry Fairchild is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Houston who is known for her advanced training, artistic eye, and patient-first approach. She specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures for the breast, body, and face and is committed to creating results that look beautiful, natural, and true to each patient’s goals. If you’re considering surgery, Dr. Fairchild welcomes you to schedule a consultation and experience the difference that board-certified care can make.