What Is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?

When people start researching plastic surgery, one of the first questions that comes up is whether their surgeon is truly qualified. As patients plan their procedures, they often ask questions like “What is a board-certified plastic surgeon?” and “Does board certification even matter?”

In this blog post, I discuss what you need to know about board certification so you can pair the right timing with the right surgeon.

What Does ‘Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon’ Mean?

The term “board certified” indicates that a physician has met the stringent requirements of an official medical board. In the case of plastic surgery, this certifying authority is the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the only aesthetic surgery board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Achieving ABPS certification requires:

• Completion of accredited residency training in plastic surgery.
• Passing comprehensive written and oral exams that assess surgical skill, decision-making, and patient care.
• Commitment to ongoing education to maintain certification over time.

This process demonstrates more than just medical school completion. It reflects advanced, specialized training and continuous dedication to providing safe, effective care.

What’s the Difference Between a Cosmetic Surgeon and a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?

Anyone with a medical license can legally perform cosmetic surgery—even if they haven’t completed advanced surgical training. For example, some physicians in unrelated specialties (such as emergency medicine or family practice) may market themselves as “cosmetic surgeons.”

The difference lies in credentials. A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed years of surgical training focused on aesthetics and reconstruction and has passed ABPS exams. Choosing a provider with this level of certification gives patients peace of mind that their surgeon has both the training and proven experience to achieve safe, satisfying, and natural-looking results.

Is It Important for a Plastic Surgeon To Be Board Certified?

Yes, board certification matters a great deal. When you choose a surgeon who is ABPS-certified, you know they:

• Have met the highest standards of education and ethics in the field.
• Prioritize patient safety and outcomes.
• Have demonstrated the ability to perform procedures correctly and handle complications if they arise.

While artistry and bedside manner are important, board certification ensures that your surgeon has the fundamental skills and judgment needed to protect your health during surgery.

Are Board-Certified Surgeons Better?

“Better” can mean many things in surgery. However, a board-certified surgeon offers a verified baseline of excellence: proven surgical training, commitment to ongoing education, and adherence to strict safety standards.

This doesn’t mean that every board-certified plastic surgeon will be the perfect fit for every patient, but it demonstrates a level of qualification you should never compromise on.

In my practice, patients often consider this credential with other factors, such as:

• Reviewing before-and-after photos
• Reading patient reviews
• Meeting the surgeon in person

This comprehensive assessment helps them make the most informed choice of provider.

How Do I Know if a Plastic Surgeon Is Board Certified?

Wondering how to check if a plastic surgeon is board certified? It’s simple to find out! Here are 3 ways to check a plastic surgeon’s certification:

• Visit the official American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) website and search their database of certified surgeons.
• Look up your surgeon on the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) website.
• Ask the surgeon directly during your consultation—board-certified physicians are proud to share their credentials.

How To Choose the Right Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

When you begin your search, it’s important to confirm ABPS certification and look for a surgeon who can also guide you through the details of timing and recovery. From there, you can refine your choice by evaluating:

• Experience and skill in your desired procedure by reviewing the surgeon’s before-and-after photos.
• Hospital or accredited surgery center privileges, which reinforce safety standards.
• Communication style by evaluating if your surgeon makes you feel heard, informed, and confident in your decision.

A surgeon who checks all these boxes and holds ABPS certification is far more likely to deliver both excellent results and a positive surgical experience.

Beyond credentials, board-certified surgeons also help patients plan for a smooth recovery. In Florida, for example, many patients choose to have surgery in the cooler winter months, when compression garments are more comfortable, sun exposure is easier to avoid, and holiday downtime makes healing more discreet. This kind of thoughtful planning is part of the comprehensive care you can expect from a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Your Safety and Confidence Come First

If you’re ready to explore your options, I invite you to request a consultation online or call my office at (321) 951-2639 to get started. During this appointment, we’ll discuss your goals, review your options, and plan your dream procedure together.