Dallas Surgeon Explains Importance of Board Certification

    DALLAS, TX, December 14, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Dr. Steve Byrd, one of the board-certified plastic surgeons in Dallas, wants people to be aware of recent reports exposing the alarming consequences of choosing an under-qualified physician to perform plastic surgery. Among the dangers mentioned were health problems, unattractive results and future complications.

"While these new reports are eye-opening, the findings are not unfamiliar," Dr. Byrd says. "As a board-certified plastic surgeon performing breast augmentation in Dallas, I have seen many problems created by doctors who don't have the training necessary to perform plastic surgery properly."

Dr. Byrd says women seeking breast implants in Dallas should first find a surgeon who is certified by a credible institution, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures that the physician has received supervised training in plastic surgery and has passed written and oral qualifying exams. The certification process is intended to promote safe, ethical and educated plastic surgery practices by requiring surgeons to maintain high standards of performance.

"By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, you can be confident that he or she has received the education and experience necessary to perform your procedure," Dr. Byrd says. "Additionally, you are protecting yourself from the risks associated with seeing a doctor who does not specialize in plastic surgery, thereby lessening your chances for complications."

Dr. Byrd cautions that not all board certification is created equal. He says patients should choose a surgeon who is certified by an agency that is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). There are currently only 24 medical specialties recognized by ABMS. However, there are more than 100 unofficial "boards." Many of these groups do not require the same level of training and experience that is necessary to earn certification from ABMS.

"The American Board of Medical Specialties is the gold standard in plastic surgery," Dr. Byrd says. "The organization's rigorous training and testing equip each surgeon with an impressive level of skill and knowledge."

In addition to education and experience, Dr. Byrd stresses the importance of finding a surgeon you trust and feel comfortable with. He or she should be able to answer your questions thoroughly and honestly and explain the benefits and drawbacks of each procedure during the initial consultation. Dr. Byrd cautions patients to beware of any doctor who "sugar-coats" information or exaggerates the benefits of surgery.

"As a patient, you should find a board-certified plastic surgeon who not only understands your aesthetic goals but also can coach you in making good surgical choices," Dr. Byrd says. "This will minimize problems and probably enhance your overall satisfaction with the procedure."

Dr. Steve Byrd (www.drstevebyrd.com) has been performing plastic surgery at his practice in Dallas, Texas for over 25 years. He is certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Byrd earned his Medical Degree with honors at the University of Texas Medical Branch. In addition to serving his patients from the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Dr. Byrd has held a variety of teaching appointments at the University of Texas Southwest Medical Center and is a member of a number of professional societies, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

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