Amidst the recent sad news of a Sydney salon manager who died after a botched breast procedure and a number of other recent plastic-surgery-horror stories around the world, patients considering undergoing a plastic surgery might be feeling that the cosmetic industry is chaotic and out-of-control.

According to the Australian Society of specialist breast (oncoplastic) and general surgeon s, with the number of patients opting to undergo plastic surgery rising dramatically over the last 10 years, the chances of hearing a horror story or two is even more likely.

Who to see and how to pick a Dud Surgeon from a true professional can be very daunting especially when you don’t have a personal recommendation or have an existing relationship with a plastic surgeon.

To keep it simple, try these 3 Fool-Proof questions to help you discern between a plastic/ oncoplastic surgeon doing their job with passion and adequate training… (And not just cash).

1. Are you a plastic/ oncoplastic surgeon or just a doctor?

You don’t want just a doctor who has been to med school for plastic surgery, you want a plastic or oncoplastic surgeon who has done extensive plastic surgery training. To avoid doctors masquerading as surgeons is easy.

Just check that your surgeon is board certified – look for FRACS accreditation behind the letters of their name.

“Currently it is not illegal for any doctor with a basic medical degree to perform surgeries such as breast augmentation. The basic medical degree is Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)”, says Dr Michael Yunaev, Principal Surgeon at Breast & Body Clinic.

“Specialist plastic and oncoplastic surgeons receive a minimum of 9 years medical and surgical training. Therefore, it is important that you check the doctor credentials and be aware that a number of doctors who describe themselves as cosmetic surgeons, but are not actually plastic or oncoplastic surgeons, and haven’t completed the full surgical training”.

To reduce your risk of seeing someone inexperienced, you should consult with a specialist surgeon that is Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).

2. Are there any other techniques or options?

A great question to distinguish a fully qualified Sydney Cosmetic Surgeon who has undergone extensive training is to discuss surgical techniques. Specialised training means a wealth of knowledge about different options to achieve your goal and which one is your best fit.

“You should ask your surgeon what technique is recommended, whether there is another approach and how this will benefit your particular case and surgical procedure”, recommends Dr Michael Yunaev. The use of modern techniques should also minimise scarring.

3. Do I like you?

Surgery is a huge decision and not something that you should rush into. Remember, you only have one body and that body deserves the best care possible. You shouldn’t feel pressured to undergo a cosmetic procedure. A plastic surgery is a choice and not an emergency. If you didn’t like the cosmetic surgeon in some way or didn’t connect with them then this is a no-brainer, they are the wrong surgeon for you.

At Breast & Body Clinic, we strive to ensure patients are given support and guidance underpinned by clear and accurate information, allowing them to be involved in and make informed decisions about their treatment. Dr Yunaev and his team are committed to tailoring a personalised approach to you and your concerns so that you may benefit from our expertise and we can meet your expectations.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Breast & Body Clinic. Whether you are searching for a breast reduction Sydney or Bowral, or Breast Revision Surgery, call us to make an appointment.