Choosing Your Surgeon

Tips on Comparing Surgeons

You are a savvy consumer. You have done your research, had a consultation with your prospective surgeon and met the surgeon’s team. You understand the costs and time frames, and you have realistic expectations for your surgery. Before you book your surgery, be sure to gauge your comfort level with your potential plastic surgeon and his team. Ensure your surgeon’s aesthetic matches your own vision for your surgical result.

We are fortunate on the Main Line that there are many Board Certified Plastic Surgeons from which to choose. Safety is your top priority. Remember, it is critical that you know your surgeon’s qualifications; here are some of the questions you will want to ask.

1. What Are Your Qualifications?

The trust between you and your plastic surgeon is vital. Ask about your doctor’s experience, especially with the procedure you are considering.

Ask about your doctor’s certifications. Certification Matters. In the United States, the American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes 24 medical specialty boards. Each of these specialty boards determines who has the proper education and training to practice in that particular specialty. Don’t be fooled by the many self-designated medical boards – many of which have applied for membership in the ABMS and been denied. Verify your plastic surgeons credentials with the American Board of Medical Specialties.

It is imperative that your plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This will ensure that your surgeon is highly educated and trained and met the stringent criteria American Board. Both cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons are grouped under the ABMS specialty board for plastic surgery.

At Claytor/Noone Plastic Surgery, we believe in providing the highest level of care. That is why our surgeons are always Board Certified Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Claytor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and The Aesthetic Society.

2. Professional Societies

Another important indicator of your surgeon’s qualifications is membership in recognized professional societies. Check to make sure your surgeon is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society (ASAPS). Is your surgeon a fellow of the American College of Surgeons?

Dr. Claytor is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Aesthetic Society, and he is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

3. Surgical Facility Accreditation

You want to know where your surgery will take place. Will your surgery be done in the doctor’s office, certified surgery center or a local hospital? Will your doctor have the best instruments and staff as well as access to emergency medical attention? You deserve the highest standard of safety and technical expertise. Along with your physician’s outstanding credentials and experience, you want to know your outpatient surgical facility is fully accredited by JCAHO (Joint Commission, Healthcare, Accreditation, Healthcare), Medicare or Quad A – Global Accreditation Authority.

At Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, your surgery will be performed at either Bryn Mawr Hospital, a nationally recognized hospital (please link), the Surgery Center of the Main Line (JCAHO) or our Quad-A accredited surgery facility conveniently located in Bryn Mawr.

4. Do You Have Hospital Privileges?

Ask if your surgeon has hospital privileges for the procedure you are requesting. In order to receive hospital privileges, the surgeon must formally apply to the hospital. During this process, the hospital requires that surgeon submit medical and license data as well as prove their ability and training in the medical procedures of their specialty. The hospital guarantees that its operating room facilities will only be staffed by surgeons fully trained in their specific medical specialty. If you need to be admitted to the hospital, it’s good to know if your plastic surgeon can continue treating you.

Dr. Claytor is a member in good standing at the Main Line Health Hospitals including Bryn Mawr Hospital, Paoli Hospital, and Lankenau Hospital, and has privileges to perform your procedure at the hospital.