Choosing to undergo plastic surgery is a major decision—for your body, your mind, and your budget. Finding the best doctor in your area is a personal process that takes a lot of time and consideration. Whether you’re searching for a top plastic surgeon in Staten Island, Brooklyn, or beyond, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
What exactly makes a good surgeon? How do you know who is right for you? Consider these 6 factors when choosing the best plastic surgeon for your next procedure.
1. Professional Experience
The best way to begin any plastic surgery research is by finding a board-certified plastic surgeon with credentials and experience. You can gauge your surgeon’s skill level by browsing their CV or searching the “About” or “Staff” section of their website. Keep an eye out for highlights such as:
- Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Honors presented by other medical groups or journals
Overall, you want to find a doctor who is trusted by both their peers and their patients.
2. Patient Reviews & Real Experiences
Patient reviews can offer a clearer picture of what it’s like to undergo treatment with a particular surgeon. Even if a practice doesn’t have a large volume of reviews, consistent, detailed feedback can be highly telling.
As you read testimonials, look for patterns such as:
- Procedure-specific feedback: Do patients mention the procedure you’re considering?
- Consistent results: Are outcomes described positively across multiple reviews?
- Communication and care: Do patients feel informed, supported, and heard?
- Overall experience: Is the full experience—from consultation to recovery—described as smooth and professional?
Check both third-party platforms and the surgeon’s website for a well-rounded view. Strong reviews should reinforce a surgeon’s expertise and the quality of patient care.
3. Background In Your Procedure
Just as no two patients are exactly alike, neither are two plastic surgeons. Many surgeons develop focused expertise in specific procedures, which can directly impact the consistency and quality of their results.
When researching your options, look for a surgeon who regularly performs the procedure you’re considering—whether that’s a breast procedure like breast augmentation or facial procedures such as blepharoplasty or facelift surgery. Surgeons who prioritize certain treatments often refine their techniques over time, leading to more predictable outcomes.
Ideally, your surgeon should perform your specific procedure on a routine basis (multiple times per month or more). This level of experience can translate to greater precision, efficiency, and confidence throughout your surgical journey.
4. Bedside Manner
Going through your plastic surgery journey can be a very vulnerable experience. Because of this, you deserve a doctor who will support you in a kind and understanding way. A surgeon with a good bedside manner can be a great source of support and comfort. Look through patient testimonials on sites like RealSelf.com to get an idea of how your doctor interacts with each of their patients.
5. Surgical Techniques
Much like an artist can use different media and techniques, plastic surgeons can have different approaches to surgery. Some doctors may prefer using a certain type of breast implant, for example, or perform surgery under different levels of anesthetic. Ask your provider about different treatment options offered at their practice. You may learn more about the procedure in the process and feel more confident in your surgery decision.
6. Before-And-After Gallery
When it comes down to it, every patient wants beautiful, long-lasting results. Patient before-and-after photos are an easy, revealing way to get an idea of what final look you can expect from a surgeon. High-quality results should have minimal scarring and look proportional with the rest of the body. Many doctors have more photos on file than they can post on their website, so ask to browse pictures during your private consultation.
Finding the right doctor isn’t always easy, but an amazing professional is worth the effort. If you’re looking for a top plastic surgeon near Staten Island or Brooklyn and would like to learn more, please request a consultation online or call us at (718) 720-9400.
This post was originally published in August 2021 and updated in March 2026.
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