Avoid Cosmetic Surgery Disasters

Newspapers, magazines and television shows often showcase the tragedy of “cosmetic surgery gone wrong.”  In April 2009, New Yorkers were shocked to hear of a 43-year old Bronx woman who died after having silicon injections by a “cosmetologist” who performed the procedure in her home.  Cable television is full of programming displaying cosmetic surgery disasters and errors.  While showcasing these medical atrocities, one might fail to mention that these kind of surgical blunders can be avoided by doing your homework and finding a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist to perform these elective procedures. 

Over 12 million plastic surgery procedures are performed each year; of those procedures approximately 18% are surgical.  The remaining 82% of procedures are non surgical treatments such as laser hair removal and skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion, and injectables and fillers such as Botox or Restylane. 

“Consumers considering cosmetic procedures should focus on physicians who are appropriately trained in plastic surgery, dermatology or facial plastic and reconstructive surgery,” said Dr. John J. Connolly, President and CEO of Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. and former president of New York Medical College.  “All of the doctors practicing cosmetic procedures who are listed in Castle Connolly guides have been screened by our physician led research team and are certified in Plastic Surgery, Otolaryngology, Dermatology or Ophthalmology, operate only in accredited medical facilities and fulfill continuing education requirements.” 

            America’s Top Doctors® now in its 8^th edition, is the best resource to help people find the qualified professionals that they are looking for.”  It is available at all major bookstores, online at www.castleconnolly.com or via the toll-free number 1.800.399.3627.