 More About Plastic Surgery
How to Pick Your Surgeon
Credentialing of a plastic surgeon is a long process
including four years in premedical college, four years in medical school,
general surgery residency and finally plastic surgery residency adding five to
seven years. A plastic surgeon then goes on to achieve
certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery after passing comprehensive written and an oral examinations and evaluation of the
doctor's own cases from two years of practice. Only at this point is the
doctor eligible for active membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Choosing your surgeon is a most important step in
the whole outcome of your surgery. The above mentioned credentials are
what you should look for in your doctor. Consumers need to be aware that
some physicians without this rigorous training assume self-designated specialty
titles ("specialty plastic surgeons" or "cosmetic
surgeons.") These titles are not certified by the Medical Board of
Specialties. If you are uncertain, ask direct questions regarding the
physician's residency training and board certification.
Surgeons are further distinguished by seeking
membership in professional societies, participating in research and teaching,
and pursuing areas of special clinical competence.
Finally, you and your surgeon must establish a
comfortable relationship. The surgeon should communicate what can be
achieved with a particular procedure, the risks, potential complications and
anticipated recovery time. Understanding these factors is critical
to your confidence approaching an operation, patience in the early postoperative
period, and satisfaction in the final result.
William Reus, M.D.
 Why Plastic?
The
word "plastic" comes from the Greek "plastikos", which means
to mold or give form. Plastic surgery enables us to mold or re- form the
human body. The plastic surgery specialty encompasses both reconstructive
and aesthetic surgery more popularly referred to as cosmetic surgery.
Reconstructive Surgery restores or improves physical function and
minimizes disfigurement from accidents, disease, or birth defects.
Aesthetic surgery can also make a significant contribution to emotional well
being by improving the appearance of normal body features and enhancing
self-image.
Each year hundreds of thousands of people choose to have aesthetic plastic
surgery to improve their appearance. The ideal candidate is someone who
recognizes a specific area in which his or her appearance could be improved and
has a personal desire to change. Many people choose to have aesthetic
surgery to help with confidence in the workplace, to give a psychological boost
after a lifestyle change, or simply to help them look as young as they feel.
The first step in this process is a consultation where you can discuss your
goals and concerns with Dr. Reus. After evaluation , Dr. Reus will
thoroughly explain options to improve your appearance. Dr. Reus and his
staff seek to help you decide which option is best suited to you and then assist
you through the process. We will make necessary arrangements with the goal
of making your surgery experience a positive one.
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