If you have decided you want to have some form of cosmetic or reconstructive surgery done, you next need to make sure you find a good plastic surgeon. While some cosmetic procedures may give the impression of being quick and simple, most of them are in fact involved surgical procedures. Regardless of why you need plastic surgery, you want to be sure to find the best plastic surgeon you can.

When looking for a plastic surgeon, you need to think about what you are looking for from a plastic surgeon, ask for recommendations from friends and family, and then research the surgeons on your short list. Because plastic surgery can be a field rife with unqualified doctors attempting to make a profit, you want to make sure you are extremely careful in selecting a plastic surgeon.

Your first step in finding a plastic surgeon is to decide exactly what qualifications you are looking for in a plastic surgeon.

1. Do you want someone who is experienced in rhinoplasty, breast augmentation or liposuction, or do you need one who specializes in burns or fixing congenital defects?
2. Do you want someone who works out of a small practice or a large one?
3. Are you willing to travel to get the best possible care?
4. Is there any possibility of having your procedure covered by insurance, and if so, what surgeons accept your plan?
5. What is your plastic surgery budget?
   1. While this is something to consider, this should not be your primary concern. Generally, plastic surgeons who offer steep discounts or do a large amount of advertising might not be at the top of their field, as if they were, they would not have to drum up additional clientele.http://www.buzzle.com/articles/how-to-find-top-plastic-surgeons-in-the-us.html

Referrals are extremely important when it comes to selecting a plastic surgeon.

1. Talk to your friends and family who have undergone plastic surgery procedures. What was their experience like? Would they recommend you visit their surgeon?
2. Ask your primary care physician for referrals.
3. Contact your local hospitals and find out what plastic surgeons might be affliated with their hospital.
4. Talk to your hair stylist or esthetician. Because some plastic surgery is done for aesthetic reasons other people who also provide services in the beauty industry can be a great resource for recommendations.http://www.facialsurgery.com/PPghowfind.htm

Once you have a short list of potential plastic surgeons, you should do additional research to determine you choose the best plastic surgeon for you and your situation.

1. Check to make sure that the surgeon is board certified as well as certified with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
2. The Better Business Bureau may have records of complaints about plastic surgeons. Check to see if their have been any complaints filed against any of your short-listed doctors.http://www.ehow.com/how_4865170_plastic-surgeon.html
3. Schedule consultations with each of your final candidates.
   1. Have the surgeon explain their approach towards each of the procedures you are thinking of having.
   2. Make sure you take an extensive look at their before and after photos. They should have a book or books readily available.
   3. Evaluate how the office and the doctor make you feel. You want to be sure you are comfortable with both the doctor and the office.
4. Make sure that your surgeon is registered with The American Medical Association and does not have any outstanding complaints.