Cosmetic surgery, otherwise known as plastic surgery is incredibly popular throughout the world, especially in the US. It is important to know that if you are considering cosmetic surgery, there are certain risks associated with it. Some of those risks are the use of general anesthesia, the possibility of infection, adverse reactions to drugs, and even deformity. An important factor in protecting yourself from injury, is selecting a qualified surgeon to perform the cosmetic surgery.

There are many physicians who represent that they are "Board Certified" in the area of plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. In the United States, including Arizona, the two most common types of physicians are known as allopathic physicians and osteopathic physicians. An allopathic physician is commonly referred to as an "M.D" and has received training and education at a traditional College of Medicine. The osteopathic physician commonly referred to as a "D.O.", has received training at a College of Osteopathic Medicine. While the training of an osteopathic physician includes much of the same education as an allopathic physician, their medical education stresses other areas of study. Both types of physicians are qualified and able to practice medicine in Arizona within their particular areas of specialty.

Many physicians have also altered their area of specialty to take advantage of the desires of people wanting to alter their appearance through surgery. When considering cosmetic surgery, you should spend some time looking into the credentials of the prospective physician to insure they are skilled and trained in performing the procedure you desire. Often the least qualified physician is the most effective at marketing their services.

In Arizona, a physician who has received a license can perform many types of surgeries in private facilities without being specialized to perform the particular surgery in question. When considering a cosmetic surgical procedure you should inquire with the physician in the following areas:

1. Are you board certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties or the Board of Osteopathic physicians?
2. Do you have privileges at several major area hospitals?
3. Have you received any fellowship training in plastic surgery, cosmetic surgery, or reconstructive surgery?
4. How long have you been in practice in Arizona?
5. Have you been sued for malpractice and if so, how many times has such a suit resulted in you paying money?

Anyone can sue anyone in the United States. The fact a physician has been sued is not indicative of their abilities. However, if a physician has repetitive claims against them, this should raise your level of concern. If you would like to check on the status of a physician, including whether there have been any claims which have resulted in the payment of money, whether they have been disciplined by the Arizona Medical Board or the Arizona Osteopathic Board whether there are matters pending against the physician, you can search for the information on the internet by checking with the Arizona Medical Board. Simply insert the name of the physician and the information will be available to you.