How Can You Tell if Your Facial Surgeon is Qualified?
If you’re considering cosmetic surgery in Toronto, choosing the right facial surgeon is a vital step towards getting the balanced, natural results you’re seeking.
Whether you’re hoping to reduce the prominence of your nose bridge or contour your jawline, it’s essential to place yourself and your appearance in capable hands. But how can you tell if your facial plastic surgeon is qualified?
Dr. Cory Torgerson
Facial Surgeon
Most patients today prefer to be well informed and empowered by their own research before selecting a plastic surgeon. However, in the social media-saturated online world, the abundance of advice and marketing surrounding cosmetic treatments can feel overwhelming. We’re here to cut through the clutter and help you focus on the vital need-to-know factors for approaching your facial plastic surgery with confidence and sound research. Read on for help with planning your new look.
Here are some of the most common factors patients consider when seeking a facial surgeon:
- Qualifications
- Areas of specialization
- Before and after photos
- Cost
We will also outline a few red flags to look out for
1. Qualifications and specialization
What does “board certified” mean?
You may have come across the term “board-certified” in your research. This term is used in the U.S. It means that an American surgeon has achieved specialized certification in one or more of the 24 ABMS member boards (American Board of Medical Specialties). In the States, surgeons can be board-certified in a multitude of specialties, so it doesn’t represent one high-level standard.
In Canada, the only accreditation college for surgeons is the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. If you don’t see that certification on your potential surgeon’s website, you’ll want to continue your search.
Choose a surgeon who has specific expertise in facial cosmetic surgery:
It is not enough for your surgeon to have general experience in plastic surgery. Someone who wants the best facelift surgeon in Toronto, for example, should look for a physician who specializes in facial surgery. It’s vital to find someone who has expert knowledge of all the intricacies involved with enhancing the face. Specialists are the most qualified to make treatment recommendations, and they will know which techniques could best achieve your goals.
2. Evidence to back up experience
Just because a facial surgeon claims to use the latest techniques, that doesn’t mean they have done so successfully. Look for a surgeon with many years of experience as well as great reviews to back up the methods they advertise. Reputable cosmetic surgeons should have a long list of happy patients and
- before and after photos listed on the website or at the clinic
- success stories and online reviews
- a list of reputable references
3. Transparency
Avoid surgeons who downplay risks:
All surgical procedures come with risks attached. Facial plastic surgery is generally very safe, but if someone claims that it is risk-free, that should be a red flag. Physicians who are dedicated to their patients’ well-being understand that every client benefits from being fully informed of the considerations involved and clearly understanding the safety measures put in place to protect you.
You should feel at ease during your initial consultation:
Of course, it’s natural to feel nervous, but pay attention to your gut once the appointment is done. Facial surgeons should exhibit a high level of understanding and compassion towards patients. You should feel listened to and comfortable asking any questions you may have. Consider it a warning sign if your concerns are disregarded or you don’t feel you are on the same page. It’s entirely acceptable to schedule more than one consultation to compare your experiences and recommendations.
4. Location and availability
Another factor for decision making should be how available your surgeon is to discuss patient concerns. You should feel welcome to create a list of concerns you have before your first appointment. However, we’ve all experienced how it feels to leave a doctor’s office and think of a question you wish you’d asked. Your physician should make themselves available to ensure that you feel confident in your surgical plan. You can also ask how they monitor and support recovery. If you choose someone who is dedicated to helping you achieve results, you can expect to be able to contact them with questions and make appointments post-op.
5. Remember that cosmetic procedures are generally high-cost
There are unavoidable costs directly linked to expertise and best care before, during, and after your procedure. Plus, if you schedule your surgery out of the country, it’s difficult to make sure beforehand that facilities are up to optimal standards. It’s vital to be vigilant so that you don’t save money at the expense of a sub-standard or unsafe outcome.
Because this is a significant decision that affects your appearance and your quality of life, you’ll need to be financially able to choose the most qualified physician available. Most reputable clinics in Toronto can provide or connect you with medical financing services to help make payment more manageable.
Consult with Dr. Cory Torgerson
Dr. Cory Torgerson is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in head, neck and facial surgery. He has 18 years of post-secondary education, several of which were completed at the prestigious University of Toronto. Dr. Torgerson has garnered national recognition for his incredible surgical skills and his ability to precisely pinpoint areas of need. He has a stellar safety record and takes an honest approach when building individualized surgical plans with patients.
At our chic Yorkville practice, we offer the aesthetic industry’s most innovative products and techniques to combine the surgical and non-surgical solutions that harmonize beautifully. We will not upsell you on services, and consultations are no-obligation and comfortable. We invite you to visit our knowledgeable team and meet Dr. Torgerson to talk about what you’d like to improve. We’ll listen, and we will work closely with you to create options that suit you.
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State-Of-The-Art Surgical Facility
Our facility offers a luxurious, comfortable and private setting for consultations and surgery with a waiting room that is both spacious and inviting. Although we hope you don’t have to spend too much time waiting to see Dr. Torgerson, within a few minutes you will feel relaxed and at ease.
