Check credentials
- Board certification: look for certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, or another board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties that is relevant to the procedure. Verify at CertificationMatters.org.
- State medical license: check with your state medical board, including any disciplinary actions.
- Hospital privileges: ask whether the surgeon is allowed to perform the same procedure at a local hospital.
Check the facility
Many cosmetic procedures take place in office-based surgical suites or ambulatory surgery centers. Ask whether the facility is accredited (for example by AAAASF, AAAHC or The Joint Commission), who provides anesthesia, and what happens in an emergency.
Red flags
- Pressure to book on the day, or “today only” discounts.
- No before-and-after photos of the surgeon’s own patients.
- Unclear or unitemized pricing.
- Multiple major procedures in one session without a clear safety explanation.
- Reluctance to discuss risks or complications.
Use a free consultation to ask questions, and read our consultation checklist.
General information, not medical, legal or insurance advice. This post reflects the position on the date shown. Check the official sources below for the latest rules.
Last updated: 15 October 2026
