E! Entertainment Television's popular plastic surgery show Botched returned last week, bringing a new batch of horror stories that will leave viewers shocked and even appalled by the damaging results of some people's attempts to improve their appearance. Plastic surgeons Paul Nassif, M.D., and Terry Dubrow, M.D., work to correct "botched" procedures in each episode, which has shed light on the risks of having procedures done by unqualified physicians, or worse, someone who is not a physician at all.
So how does one help clients avoid becoming one of these "botched" patients? Raja Nalluri, M.D., board-certified plastic surgeon at Clinique of Plastic Surgery (St. Petersburg) has a few tips for people looking to go under the knife.
- "The most important thing you can do is research the doctor who will be performing your surgery," says Nalluri. "Ask about their board certification, as well as their experience performing the surgery you're considering. Experience here is key, as it will greatly increase the chances that the surgery is done safely and correctly the first time, especially if it is a complex operation."
- In addition, Nalluri recommends speaking with patients who have had procedures performed by the physician within the past few years. Flipping through before-and-after photos can also help gauge the expected results of the procedure. "People will do a ton of research when it comes to something simple like buying a t-shirt, but when it comes time to have a major procedure done, they often go with the cheaper option," says Nalluri. "Don't make this mistake when selecting a plastic surgeon. Be critical of the practice, including the physicians, staff and standards of care."
- For patients considering plastic surgery outside of the U.S., Nalluri advises highly against it. "The problem with having a procedure done in another country is that if any complications arise in the weeks following your surgery, your physician is located a thousand miles away and isn't available for post-op care," he says. "Infections can take over the incision site and serious complications can occur if not treated by a trained professional."
For more information on Clinique of Plastic Surgery, visit www.cliniqueps.com.