Experience
Your surgeon should have years of experience in performing cosmetic and reconstructive operations. Ask for how many years your surgeon has been performing these procedures.
Training and Commitment
The restrictions of today's managed care environment has prompted many physicians to promote their practice of cosmetic eyelid and laser surgery. Carefully evaluate their training and commitment. Has the physician completed special training or fellowship in eyelid or ophthalmic plastic surgery? Are they members of the American Society of Opthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ASOPRS)? Is plastic surgery around the eyelids and face their exclusive focus, or is this a sidelight to other interests?
Specialization
How well trained is your surgeon in the procedures you are contemplating? Does your doctor claim to be equally skilled at surgery in all parts of the face and body? Sophisticated patients recognize from their own experience that a surgeon focused on one area is more likely to be skilled, up to date, and knowledgeable in that area.
Comprehensive Skills
Your cosmetic surgeon should be skilled at all the currently available techniques to treat your eyelid and facial problems. Be concerned about a surgeon or facility that treats all patients with the same techniques. There may be several ways to achieve the patient's desired result, but a surgeon who only knows how to perform one type of operation will not offer alternatives.
State of the Art Equipment
Be certain that you are being given access to state of the art technology. Ask about laser, endoscopic and "hidden incision" techniques of surgery. Does your surgeon own the instruments needed for laser and endoscopic surgery or merely rent as needed. Surgeons that own their own lasers and equipment are more likely to be familiar with these modalities that other physicians handicapped by the need to rent equipment on a case by case basis.
How comfortable are you with your surgeon?
Your appearance and vision are precious. You must feel comfortable with your surgeon and choices that you have made. Your surgeon and his/her staff should answer your questions fully. It is important that you trust your surgeon and staff to work with you before and after surgery.
Is your surgeon trained beyond your particular needs?
It is generally recognized that the best cosmetic surgeons are also the best reconstructive surgeons. A skilled reconstructive surgeon knows how to identify and avoid problems before they happen. They draw on a broad body of experience that other surgeons cannot match. By the same token, a cosmetic surgeon will bring awareness of balance and harmony to even the most challenging reconstructive procedures.
Is your surgeon respected by peers and the medical community?
The most skilled surgeons are active in educational activities at Medical Schools and Universities. They have trained resident physicians and practicing physicians. They are skilled as reconstructive and cosmetic surgeons and have hospital staff privileges.
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