The Rise in Non-Specialist Plastic Surgery

By Dr. Surjit Rai

A recent New York Times article titled “Ear Doctors Performing Face-Lifts? It happens,” addresses the increasing number of doctors providing plastic surgery procedures to their patients, regardless of the fact that the doctors are not specialists in plastic surgery.

Because elective cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance, doctors can conveniently charge their patients an out-of-pocket cost without the disappointment of a low insurance reimbursement.

So, is there anything wrong with receiving liposuction from an ear, nose and throat doctor? Not necessarily, but the risks of receiving surgery from a non-specialist include:

• Unsatisfactory results. Even though a doctor may have surgical experience, satisfactory results are better guaranteed when performed by a doctor experienced in that specific procedure. A knowledgeable and talented ophthalmologist may not have the experience necessary to provide satisfactory breast augmentation results.

• Inadequate or unsafe surgical facilities. Surgeries performed outside of an accredited surgical facility may be poorly equipped in the event that an emergency arises. If a complication arises during surgery, proper emergency medical equipment is critical to preventing injury and death.

There are no laws or regulations requiring doctors to practice within the field in which they are trained or board certified.

A surgeon board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery has completed training devoted to the specialty of plastic surgery, and has completed rigorous oral and written examinations pertaining to plastic surgery.

For plastic surgery in Dallas, Texas, please contact experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Vasdev Rai to schedule a consultation.