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How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Your Neck Lift

Though there are thousands of practicing plastic surgeons in the U.S., not all of them have the same experience, training, and specialties. That’s because succeeding in this competitive field requires a unique blend of medical training and artistic talent to help you achieve your goals.

Neck lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure to correct sagging or excess tissue in the neck area. Common reasons for seeking a neck lift are jowls, a turkey wattle, and a double chin.

The first step in any plastic surgery journey is to do your homework and narrow down a shortlist of potential physicians to perform your procedure, then schedule a consultation with each one.

How Do I Find a Surgeon I Can Trust?

You should treat your initial visit with a prospective surgeon like you are interviewing them for a job. It’s essential to consider the following during this first consultation.

  • Do they have the proper education, training, and certifications?
  • Do they have extensive experience with neck lift surgery?
  • Do you like what you see from their before-and-after photos?
  • Does their bedside manner put you at ease?
  • Does their aesthetic philosophy align with yours?
  • Is the medical team friendly and welcoming?
  • Is the surgical center clean, well-maintained, and equipped with state-of-the-art technology?

The Value of Certification From the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Surgeons who have earned certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery have met or exceeded the most rigorous training and examination standards in medicine. This accomplishment ensures your surgeon is not only competent in performing plastic and reconstructive surgery, but has also pledged to uphold high standards of patient safety and medical ethics.

To meet ABPS requirements, a physician must have:

  • Completed at least six years of surgical training after medical school with at least three years of plastic surgery residency
  • Passed comprehensive written and oral exams
  • Graduated from an accredited medical school
  • Completed continuing medical education annually
  • Permission to perform plastic surgery in accredited, state-licensed, or Medicare-certified facilities

While researching plastic surgeons near you, board certification should be the first item on your checklist. Dr. Jorge de la Pedraja has earned and maintained certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

What Can I Expect During My Neck Lift Consultation?

During your initial visit, you can feel comfortable bringing up all your cosmetic goals and concerns. When you consult with Dr. de la Pedraja, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and learn about all your options without ever feeling pressured to make a decision.

Dr. de la Pedraja will evaluate your health history to determine if you are a good candidate for neck lift surgery and clarify what the procedure can do for you. Once he understands your goals, he may recommend alternative or additional treatments for you to consider.

Bring a List of Questions to Your Consultation

Your neck lift surgery consultation will go more smoothly if you prepare by writing down a list of everything you want to talk about. Remember, there’s no such thing as a silly question when you are considering a surgery that can change your appearance and quality of life.

Here are some example questions to help you fully understand the neck lift procedure and what it can do for you:

  • Am I a good candidate for neck lift surgery?
  • Is the outcome I am seeking realistic?
  • Can I review before-and-after photos from your previous neck lifts?
  • How many neck lifts have you performed?
  • Where will my incisions be, and will I have any visible scarring?
  • Where do you perform your surgeries? 
  • How long will my surgery take?
  • What anesthesia options do you use?
  • How much will this surgery cost?
  • What can I expect during recovery?
  • When can I resume my normal activities?
  • What are the risks associated with a neck lift?
  • How will you handle potential complications?
  • What options do I have if I’m not happy with the results?

Schedule Your Florida Neck Lift Consultation With Dr. de la Pedraja

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. de la Pedraja specializes in Coral Gables neck lifts and many other breast, body, and facial procedures. He has dedicated his practice to ensuring a safe, stress-free, and patient-focused experience by customizing individual surgical plans.  To learn more about how you can get outstanding outcomes from working with a qualified, trained plastic surgeon, contact us today.