When considering cosmetic surgery, you have a lot of important decisions to make. Most prospective patients spend their time thinking about recovery from the procedure and what the results will look like. While these details are very important, the first step and your highest priority should be choosing the right plastic surgeon. A top plastic surgeon in NJ will have the right experience, expertise, and credentials to help you achieve your desired results. Start by doing a comprehensive search online for doctors near you and asking your friends and family. After that, follow the five quick but crucial tips we provide below.

5 quick tips for finding a top plastic surgeon in NJ

You want the plastic surgeon that you choose to be better than simply good. You want your surgeon to be a top doctor in your area. The following five tips will help you look for and ultimately choose the right doctor to perform your cosmetic surgery.

1. Talk to friends, family and trusted colleagues who have had work done to get recommendations.

When you begin your search for a top plastic surgeon in New Jersey, the best place to start is with the people you trust. Seek out your friends and family members who had work done. Ask about their experiences and get the names of the doctors they used. If you don’t know anyone who had plastic surgery, ask around. Finding someone who can talk you through the entire experience, from initial consultation to recovery, can be the most helpful resource. Once you have a few names, it’s time to start the research.

2. Do some research and read online reviews to narrow down your search.

Searching for a local plastic surgeon with top credentials online is an important step in preparing for the best outcome from your procedure. Online reviews on reputable websites, such as HealthGrades, can be very useful. You can use those reviews to set your own expectations and create a solid list of questions to ask each doctor at your initial consultations. Social media can also be helpful in getting a sense of the doctor’s practice and different patient experiences. One important note is that not everything you read online is 100% truthful or reputable. Be alert and make sure you are reviewing verified information that will qualify your decisions.

3. Come to each initial consultation prepared with the right questions.

After all the initial discussions and online research, you will make a few appointments with your favorite prospects. These initial consultations are your opportunity to gather all the information you need to make your decision. As a result, showing up with a list of your questions and concerns can make all the difference. Luckily, during all of your initial research, you will likely compile a list of questions as you learn more about the procedure. Bring these questions with you to each appointment. Make sure you ask the following.

  • Are you board certified?
  • What is your experience performing [insert desired procedure]?
  • Are you affiliated with any local hospitals?
  • Do you have before-and-after photos that I can see?
  • What results have you had performing this procedure in the past?
  • What is the cost of this procedure with your office?
  • Do you have any additional patient resources?

4. Remember that mannerisms and attitude matter.

During your conversations with the prospective doctors, remember that their mannerisms and attitude are important. Both of these attributes indicate who they are as a surgeon. How the doctor makes you feel during your consultation will reflect how they will guide you through the procedure itself. You should leave the consultation feeling well-informed and confident in your choices and the doctor’s capabilities. If this is not the case, keep searching. How comfortable you are with the surgeon is important to make sure you’re both on the same page about your goals. Bedside manner can be a red flag when choosing a top plastic surgeon in New Jersey.

5. Take your time and listen to your intuition.

After all of your appointments, take your time in making a decision. Listen to your gut. It is likely that one of the surgeons will have made you feel more comfortable than the others. That top doctor will have expertise, experience, and attitude that align with what you are looking for.

Important criteria to look for

The most important criteria in a top plastic surgeon are:

  • Board certification. Make sure the plastic surgeon you choose has passed more than just a state medical board. He or she should be certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.
  • Hospital privileges. It is useful to have a doctor that has privileges at a local accredited hospital. This proves that he or she has passed the rigorous background checks that are required.
  • Experience and expertise. As mentioned, your plastic surgeon should have years of experience performing successful cosmetic procedures. Specifically, he or she should have the proper training and expertise in the procedure that you are seeking.
  • Superior patient outcomes. The majority of the patients that worked with your doctor in the past should be very happy with their results. Asking about before-and-after photos is important for understanding their success rate and aesthetic.

Find a top plastic surgeon in NJ with Dr. Berlet

Dr. Anthony Berlet has been in practice as a New Jersey plastic surgeon for over 20 years in Essex County, Bergen County, and the surrounding areas and has developed a large clientele from around the country and abroad. Dr. Berlet is board-certified in both plastic and general surgery, which has given him a broad base of surgical expertise. Dr. Berlet completed his medical school education and plastic surgery residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, with an additional internship and general surgery residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. His blend of art, design, and highly developed surgical skills truly set Dr. Berlet apart within the field of plastic surgery. To learn more, contact us today!