Guidelines for
Patients from the American Society for Aesthetic
Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
New York, NY (June 16, 2004) — Deceptive
advertisements and television programs promising
total makeovers often give the impression that
deciding to have cosmetic plastic surgery is as
simple as buying a new shade of lipstick. The
resulting confusion is understandable and alarming,
according to Peter Fodor, MD, President of the
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
(ASAPS). Dr. Fodor reminds prospective patients that
undergoing surgery is a serious commitment and, he
says, selecting the “right” surgeon and facility are
the patient's responsibilities.
“Patients must do their homework when choosing an
aesthetic plastic surgeon,” says Dr. Fodor. “There
is tremendous confusion about plastic surgery.
Television shows trivialize the experience, and
advertisements often intentionally mislead. I see
patients who come in after a bad experience
somewhere else, and they admit they didn't do enough
research when they were selecting their surgeon.
It's important for people to realize that when the
surgeon is properly trained and the facility is
accredited, patients are much more likely to be
satisfied with the outcome. There is no such thing
as ‘risk-free' surgery,” Dr. Fodor adds, “but there
are steps patients can take to help ensure
their safety and satisfaction when undergoing
cosmetic surgery.”
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic
Surgery, the only national organization of
board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in
cosmetic surgery, offers ASAPS Guidelines
for Patients – How to Find the “Right” Cosmetic
Plastic Surgeon:
