ASPS Plastic Surgery: What You Need to Know
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the leading organization of board-certified plastic surgeons. It focuses on maintaining high standards in the profession, improving patient safety, and advocating for the rights of plastic surgeons at all levels of government.
The ASPS represents 94% of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the U.S., and more than eight thousand plastic surgeons worldwide, making it the largest plastic surgery specialty organization in the world. Members of ASPS must meet rigorous standards: board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, commitment to continuing education, and performing surgery in accredited, state-licensed, or Medicare-certified surgical facilities.
When considering plastic surgery, many factors come into play including the surgeon’s experience and your comfort level with him/her. The ASPS can provide a list of qualified surgeons in your area. The surgery itself, the aftercare, potential complications, and the cost are all points to be considered.
The Cost of Plastic Surgery
A major factor when considering plastic surgery is cost. One of the most common procedures is a rhinoplasty, or as it is commonly known, a nose job. What is the nose job cost? The answer can vary widely because the cost depends on several factors including the surgeon’s skill and experience, the type of procedure, the geographic location where the procedure takes place, and various other factors.
According to statistics from the ASPS, the average surgeon’s fees for rhinoplasty are around $5,350. This does not include the cost for facilities, anesthesia, or other related expenses. It’s very important to get a complete picture of the total cost for any procedure during your consultation.
Keep in mind that most health insurance does not cover cosmetic surgery. However, if the surgery is to correct a functional problem or a defect from birth or an accident, insurance may offer some coverage.
Choosing a Surgeon
ASPS members must meet specific criteria ensuring that they have the appropriate training and are performing surgeries in accredited facilities. An ASPS member plastic surgeon has at least five years of surgical training with a minimum of two years in plastic surgery.
This means that the plastic surgeon has the necessary training to prevent and handle emergencies, and they have the professional qualifications to perform plastic surgery at the highest standards.
The ASPS also has ethical guidelines that members must adhere to. This includes being forthcoming with patients about their qualifications, being honest about the potential risks and benefits of procedures, and making sure that patients have realistic expectations about the outcome of their surgery.
Overall, if you’re considering plastic surgery – whether it’s a rhinoplasty or any other procedure, it is important that you do your research, consider the cost, find a trusted surgeon, and consult with an ASPS member surgeon to ensure that you receive the highest standard of care.