From board certification to patient before-and-after pictures, Dr. Neil J. Zemmel details what to look for in a plastic surgeon to ensure the best possible experience.
Richmond, VA – Finding the best plastic surgeon in Virginia requires doing ample research and focusing on certain credentials, explains Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS. Having practiced plastic surgery for over 15 years in the Richmond area, Dr. Zemmel has seen firsthand the dangers of choosing an underqualified physician, as he has helped numerous patients with revisional procedures. This is why the board-certified plastic surgeon urges men and women to take their time in selecting a doctor, ensuring they find a trustworthy professional who is the right fit.
At Richmond Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Zemmel is committed to educating patients about their treatment options. Whether an individual is ready to schedule their procedure or is still trying to find the best plastic surgeon for their needs, Dr. Zemmel highlights five major areas of research to help guide them in their search.
Check for Board Certification
To ensure the qualifications of a physician, Dr. Zemmel urges people to find a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This is the only organization recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) to certify plastic surgeons. The ABPS has a rigorous certification process that requires completing at least six years of specialty training, passing a comprehensive exam process, and upholding the highest of safety and care standards.
Look for Experience
Ideally, a plastic surgeon would have several years of experience, especially in the procedure being considered — from breast augmentation and liposuction to mommy makeover surgery. Dr. Zemmel says that experience allows a doctor to hone their skills, improving their ability to help a patient safely and effectively reach their aesthetic goals. In addition, being in practice for several years may provide more opportunities for awards that can reveal their favorable reputation, and completion of continuing education can further advance their expertise.
Read Online Reviews
Online reviews and ratings are an invaluable resource in this day and age, notes Dr. Zemmel. From Google and Facebook to Healthgrades and Yelp, the Richmond plastic surgeon says the reviews former patients leave can provide helpful insight into a doctor’s credibility, bedside manner, typical wait times, and more.
View Before-and-After Pictures
When considering a certain procedure, Dr. Zemmel recommends asking for before-and-after photos of the plastic surgeon’s former patients. In many cases, he says these may even be available on the doctor’s website. By browsing through these transformations, Dr. Zemmel believes patients can find examples of the type of results they can expect should they choose the surgeon for their procedure.
Ask Questions
One of the best ways to get to know a plastic surgeon is to schedule a consultation to have an open conversation with them, explains Dr. Zemmel. During this visit, a prospective patient can ask about their credentials, learn about their values, and get their professional recommendation for treatment options. Dr. Zemmel encourages men and women not to hesitate to ask questions and express any concerns they may have, as the right plastic surgeon will want to ease their mind and help them be informed about their care.
While Dr. Zemmel highlights board certification as the most important credential to look for in a plastic surgeon, he says following each piece of the above advice can lead to someone finding not only a highly qualified physician, but one that makes the prospective patient feel comfortable and confident about their choice.
About Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS
Dr. Zemmel is a board-certified plastic surgeon offering cosmetic and reconstructive procedures at Richmond Aesthetic Surgery. He earned his medical degree from the University of Virginia, and continued to the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center to complete a six-year residency. He has been recognized as “Best Plastic Surgeon” and “Top Doctor” several years in a row by local publications, and is regularly featured in the media for his expertise on surgical procedures. To stay at the forefront of plastic surgery advancements, Dr. Zemmel is active in several medical associations, including being a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and more. He is available for interview upon request.
Contact:
Richmond Aesthetic Surgery
11934 W Broad Street, Suite 200
Richmond, VA 23233
(804) 423-2100
Rosemont Media
(800) 491-8623
www.rosemontmedia.com
