Choosing a plastic surgeon is a very important decision. Every surgeon is different, and some may have stronger skills in various areas. It is important to do your research and ensure that your surgeon is properly credentialed. Here are some of the most important points for you to consider in your search:
- It is critical that your surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Many surgeons will advertise that they are board certified, but it may be in dermatology, internal medicine, emergency medicine, OB/GYN, or even radiology. Being board certified in plastic surgery ensures that your doctor has completed rigorous training in plastic surgery which includes cosmetic surgery. If other physicians are practicing these techniques, they have learned them outside of a standard residency program at a weekend seminar or other similar training methods.
- Before and after photos are very important as they give a good overview of the surgeon’s work. Keep in mind that these will be their best work—what is most important is the ability to show consistent results. You want to pick a surgeon who you feel will do a stellar job for your surgery.
- Price is, of course, an important consideration. Most quality physicians are relatively in the same price range. If you have found a “bargain”, there is likely a good a reason that that person cannot charge market rates and it may be a red flag. The only way to make up for cut-rate prices is speed – and plastic surgery should never be rushed. Some surgeons will be above the normal market levels – this usually is a result of their training, reputation, and results.
While we are of course biased to our own practice and Dr. Dorner’s expertise, we wanted to take a moment to recognize some of the other leading plastic surgeons in our fine state. So, without further ado, here are some of the best plastic surgeons in Ohio:
Susan Vasko, MD | At Columbus Plastic Surgery (CAPS) MedSpa in Upper Arlington, Dr. Vasko expands her research on breast reconstruction by focusing on infection prevention protocols utilizing tissue expanders. She is also the director at Riverside Methodist Hospital for the plastic surgery residency program.
Daniel Medalie, MD | Located in Cleveland, Dr. Medalie specializes in many aspects of Transgender Surgery and researches gene therapy and skin tissue engineering. He recently opened his new private practice location in Beachwood, Ohio.
Bahman Guyuron, MD | Based in Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Guyuron has a three-decade passion for rhinoplasty and specializes in face and neck procedures. He has performed more than 2,500 surgical migraine procedures throughout his career.
Rob Houser, DO | Dr. Houser is a native of Central Ohio and started his studies at The Ohio State University. He specializes in immediate reconstructive surgery where he graduated as Chief Resident during his final year.
Greg Pearson, MD | Dr. Pearson is a certified pediatric surgeon at The Cleft Lip and Palate Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. As a physician at this center, he is recognized as an American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Associate affiliate team member.
Bivik Shah, MD | Dr. Shah began his career earning an electrical engineering degree from the University of Michigan before attending The Ohio State University for medical school. He is a partner at Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery and is actively involved in Operation Smileproviding charity surgeries on missions around the world.
Robert Heck, MD | Dr. Heck, a partner at Columbus Plastic Surgery (CAPS) MedSpa, was awarded The Outstanding Surgery Resident Award and is an active board member at the Riverside Outpatient Surgery Center.
James McMahan, MD | Specializing in aesthetic and laser surgery, Dr. McMahan is a member of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and he’s committed to furthering his surgical skills through The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Please note that these are not endorsements for these surgeons, simply a review of community impression and assessment of their before and after photographs. Be sure to keep the steps above in mind, take your time with your decision and speak with multiple practices to find the right doctor for you. It is important you are comfortable with your overall decision and doctor performing the procedure, and the good news is, Ohio has no shortage of great plastic surgeons.
