Whether you’re considering a breast augmentation, Brazilian Butt Lift, or a facelift, one decision matters more than any other: choosing the right plastic surgeon.
South Florida is home to hundreds of cosmetic surgery providers — but not all of them are board-certified, ethical, or even legally qualified to perform surgery. Choosing the wrong provider can lead to poor results, complications, or even serious medical risks.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to choose a plastic surgeon in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, or anywhere in between — safely and confidently.
1. Always Choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
This is non-negotiable. Your surgeon must be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) — the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties for plastic and reconstructive surgery
Why Board Certification Matters:
- ABPS-certified surgeons complete at least 6 years of surgical training
- They pass rigorous oral and written exams
- They operate in accredited surgical facilities with proper emergency protocols
- They are trained in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures
Red Flag: “Cosmetic surgeon” is not the same as “plastic surgeon.” Many doctors advertising surgery in South Florida are not ABPS-certified — they may be trained in dermatology, OB/GYN, or even dentistry.look. From non-surgical enhancements to advanced skincare solutions, we are committed to your beauty journey every step of the way.
2. Verify Surgical Facility Accreditation
Make sure your surgery will take place in an accredited surgical facility, not a backroom or outpatient clinic without emergency capabilities. Look for:
- AAAASF, JCAHO, or AAAHC accreditation
- Licensed anesthesia providers (MD anesthesiologist or CRNA)
- Emergency protocol standards
- Proper sterilization and monitoring equipment.
Pro Tip: Ask to see the credentials of the operating room, not just the surgeon.
3. Schedule a Private Consultation (Not a Sales Call)
A real consultation should feel like a collaborative conversation, not a pressured sales pitch. What to Expect in a Quality Consultation:
- The surgeon meets with you directly — not just a “coordinator”
- You discuss your goals, lifestyle, and medical history
- The surgeon offers customized options, not a one-size-fits-all solution
- You’re shown before-and-after photos of real patients with similar goals
- Safety, downtime, and pricing are all clearly explained
Red Flag: If a clinic pushes you to “book today” for a discount or avoids questions about complications, walk away.
4. Read Verified Reviews and Testimonials
Reputation is everything. Look beyond the website and check:
- Google Reviews
- RealSelf
- Healthgrades
- Word-of-mouth referrals
Look for patterns:
- Do patients mention natural results?
- Do they describe compassionate, professional care?
- Are there complaints about lack of follow-up or unskilled staff?
5. Evaluate the Surgeon’s Aesthetic Style
Plastic surgery is part science, part art. Just because a surgeon is certified doesn’t mean they’re the right artist for you.
Ask yourself:
- Do their before-and-after photos reflect the aesthetic you want?
- Are the results natural, proportional, and elegant — or exaggerated?
- Do male and female patients look well-balanced?
- Does the surgeon specialize in your procedure of interest (e.g., BBL, facelift, rhinoplasty)?
6. Ask These 7 Smart Questions
Use these at any consultation in South Florida:
- Are you board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
- How many times have you performed this exact procedure?
- Where will my surgery take place?
- Who provides anesthesia?
- What are the most common risks or complications with this surgery?
- Can I see before-and-after photos of patients with a similar body or face?
- What is your revision policy if I’m unhappy with the results?
Why Patients Across South Florida Choose us
At South Florida Plastic Surgery, our practice is designed around your safety, satisfaction, and confidence.
- Board-certified, specialty-trained plastic surgeons
- Personalized consultations — never rushed or pressured
- Natural, elegant results
- AAAASF-accredited surgical facility
- Follow-up and long-term care
