Choosing a plastic surgeon involves more than comparing procedures or scrolling through before-and-after photos. If you are researching plastic surgery procedures in Scottsdale, a surgeon’s credentials can tell you a great deal about the education and preparation behind their work. At Sean Lille, MD, PC, Dr. Sean Lille is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and completed an aesthetic and breast reconstructive fellowship at Mayo Clinic Scottsdale.

What ABPS Board Certification Means

Board certification is different from holding a medical license. The American Board of Plastic Surgery describes certification as a voluntary credential that requires prescribed education and specialty training beyond the minimum requirements for medical licensure.

The process includes comprehensive written and oral examinations. Under the current ABPS system, candidates must pass the written exam and submit a case log for Board review before taking the oral exam. Those cases are evaluated for factors such as diversity, complexity, and volume. For patients, ABPS certification provides an objective credential they can verify when researching a plastic surgeon’s qualifications.

What Else Should You Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon?

Certification matters, but it cannot predict your individual result. It also does not replace the need to look closely at a surgeon’s experience with the procedure you are considering.

Start by reviewing before-and-after photos of patients with concerns similar to yours. Pay attention to consistency and whether the surgeon’s results align with the type of change you want. Patient reviews can also give you insight into communication, professionalism, follow-up care, and the experience patients have with the office.

A consultation can tell you a great deal about whether a surgeon is right for you. Ask about experience with your procedure, the recommended approach for your anatomy, where surgery will take place, expected recovery, and potential risks. Clear answers should help you understand both what surgery can accomplish and its limitations.

Certification is not the only qualification worth reviewing. Dr. Lille has practiced in Scottsdale since 2000 and has authored more than 70 plastic surgery publications. You can also explore our plastic surgery blog for additional information about specific procedures and surgical considerations.

Choosing Your Plastic Surgeon in Scottsdale

Board certification deserves careful consideration alongside procedure-specific experience, surgical results, and communication. If you are considering cosmetic surgery and want to discuss the procedure that interests you and Dr. Lille’s experience performing it, contact us at Sean Lille, MD, PC in Scottsdale, AZ. Our team can be reached at 480-661-6197.