One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right plastic surgeon. A skilled, experienced surgeon helps you achieve your goals with minimal risk; an unqualified one can cause serious harm. Here are the factors that matter most.
Board Certification
Look for a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) — it means they completed rigorous training and passed comprehensive written and oral exams. Note that some providers are board-certified in other specialties (like dermatology or ENT) without the same plastic surgery training. You can verify any surgeon at the ABPS “verify certification” tool.
Experience
Choose a surgeon with extensive experience in your specific procedure. Ask how often they perform it and to see before-and-after photos of their own patients. An experienced surgeon sets realistic expectations and minimizes complications.
Hospital or Facility Privileges
Make sure your surgeon can perform your procedure at an accredited hospital or surgery center. In many states it’s legal to build an in-office OR with little oversight — board-certified plastic surgeons agree to operate only in accredited facilities that follow safety protocols.
Communication
Choose a surgeon who listens and clearly explains the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes. You should meet your surgeon before the day of surgery with ample time for questions.
Aesthetic Sensibility
Look for a surgeon who shares your aesthetic vision and has a strong sense of balance and proportion — especially for rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and facelifts. Review their social media and gallery: if their results consistently trend too large or too small for your taste, another surgeon may match your eye better.
Reputation
Check reviews and referrals, and look up the surgeon on the state medical board for any complaints. You can search the Texas Medical Board directly.
Comfort Level
Finally, choose a surgeon — and a team — who make you feel comfortable and confident. If a complication ever arises, you want to trust that they’ll guide you through it. You’ll interact with many team members along your journey, so that comfort should extend to the whole practice.
The Bottom Line
The right surgeon is board-certified, deeply experienced in your procedure, operates in accredited facilities, communicates well, shares your aesthetic, has a strong reputation, and puts you at ease. Learn more about Dr. Levesque or schedule a consultation to see if we’re the right fit for you.