Liposuction is a surgical procedure; as such, licensed physicians perform the surgery. Typically, the most experienced professionals are plastic surgeons and dermatologists, however, any licensed medical doctor may engage in liposuction. Specialists hold a knowledge of how to not only eliminate pockets of fat cells, they know how to contour the body for maximum aesthetic/health effect. Professional medical societies advise physicians interested in performing liposuction to complete specialized training in this technique. To find a reputable specialist, consider the following:
Research Liposuction
You know that your interest lies in losing weight and reshaping your body. What you may not know are the details of the procedure, the recovery, and any risks/possible adverse effects. Research key ideas relating to the procedure and you can formulate a list of intelligent questions for the surgeon. In this way, you will test the knowledge of the candidates you interview for the position of liposuction surgeon. Remember that you are not the only "candidate" here; the surgeons you speak with are candidates for your liposuction procedure.
Referrals from Healthcare Providers
The first person you should check in with is your primary healthcare provider, who may be able to give you the name(s) of plastic surgery and/or dermatological specialists who have experience in liposuction. Your personal doctor may advise you on your candidacy for the procedure and offer questions to ask of liposuction specialists.
Referrals from Family, Friends and Colleagues
The next people you can ask for referrals are family members, friends and work colleagues. The benefit to you here is when you find someone who has successfully undergone the procedure. The key is to network and find a highly skilled surgeon that has much experience with liposuction.
Online Contacts
If the above searches for referrals leave you empty-handed, access the Internet to find surgeons in your area. The benefit here gives you message boards and other online forums that provide you with a plethora of information on the procedure itself from patients who successfully (or unsuccessfully) experienced liposuction.
No matter where you find your referrals, two of the most informed questions you should ask are: Has the surgeon successfully completed the specialized training for liposuction procedures? and How many liposuction procedures has the surgeon successfully performed?
