Bridging the Gap: Why Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon Matters in Appleton, Wisconsin

When you’re considering plastic surgery in Appleton, WI, the decision goes far beyond choosing a procedure. It’s about choosing the right board-certified plastic surgeon, someone whose training, experience, and surgical environment prioritizes your safety and your results. Selecting the right surgeon isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for achieving natural, predictable, and safe outcomes.

At Appleton Plastic Surgery, we know how important this decision is. That’s why we highlight the three critical pillars that distinguish a great plastic surgeon from the rest—and the questions every patient should ask before undergoing any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure.

1. Credentials: More Than Just a Name on a Door

One of the most important steps in selecting a plastic surgeon in Appleton is confirming proper board certification.

Why Board Certification Matters

Not every doctor who advertises “plastic surgery” or “cosmetic surgery” is trained or certified in plastic surgery. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS):

• Only surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) (or the Royal College in Canada) may display the ASPS Symbol of Excellence.

• ABPS certification represents rigorous surgical training, comprehensive examinations, ongoing education, and a deep commitment to patient safety.

• Surgeons who are “board eligible,” uncertified, or improperly displaying the ASPS logo should be avoided.

Important Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

• Are you board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)?

• Are you an Active Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)?

• Do you operate in a fully accredited surgical facility and hold hospital privileges?

Choosing a surgeon with these qualifications significantly improves safety, outcomes, and your overall experience.

2. Safety: Where and How Your Surgery Will Be Performed

Safety isn’t only about the surgeon—it’s also about the surgical setting.ASPS requires its members to perform procedures in accredited, state-licensed, or Medicare-certified facilities that meet strict safety standards.

What to Ask About Surgical Facilities

• Where will my surgery be performed?

• Is the facility accredited by AAAASF, The Joint Commission, or another recognized body?

• Who will be present during surgery?

  • A board-certified anesthesiologist?

  • Surgical nurses trained specifically in plastic surgery?

Understanding accreditation, emergency protocols, and staffing helps ensure that safety is prioritized at every step.

Why the ASPS Member Symbol Matters

The ASPS “Symbol of Excellence” is more than just a logo—it is a nationally recognized indicator of qualified, ethical, and safety-focused plastic surgeons.

Only fully certified Active or Life members of ASPS may use this symbol. Seeing the ASPS logo on a surgeon’s website or office signage should give you confidence—but always verify ABPS certification as well.

When researching plastic surgeons in Appleton or Northeast Wisconsin, the ASPS symbol is your first sign that you’re in the right place.

What Appleton Plastic Surgery Encourages Every Patient to Do

1. Do your research.

2. Ask direct, informed questions.

3. Understand where your surgery will take place.

4. Look for the ASPS Symbol of Excellence—and understand what it represents.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we welcome you to schedule a consultation, review our credentials, and tour our accredited surgical facilities.

How Appleton Plastic Surgery Meets — and Exceeds — These Standards

Choosing the right surgeon is essential—and at Appleton Plastic Surgery, we live by these standards every day. Here’s how we align with the highest expectations in modern, ethical, and safe plastic surgery.

1. Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Fully Credentialed

Our lead surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)—the only board recognized by the ABMS for plastic surgery of the face and body. This certification means:

• Accredited plastic surgery residency training

• Rigorous written and oral board examinations

• Ongoing maintenance of certification

• Continued education focused on patient safety and surgical innovation

As an Active Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), our surgeon upholds the most rigorous ethical and professional standards in the specialty. We proudly and appropriately display the ASPS Symbol of Excellence.

2. Specialized Expertise & Proven Surgical Results

Appleton Plastic Surgery specializes in precision, evidence-based aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, including:

• Breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction

• Skin cancer reconstruction

• Body contouring procedures

• Facial rejuvenation

Our practice offers:

• High annual surgical volume

• Safe, consistent, natural-looking outcomes

• Personalized surgical plans tailored to anatomy and goals

• Real patient before-and-after photography

We never stretch beyond our expertise, and we never delegate surgical care to unqualified providers.

3. Surgery Performed in Fully Accredited Surgical Facilities

Your safety is our top priority. Appleton Plastic Surgery performs procedures only in accredited, state-licensed facilities that meet national standards for sterility, anesthesia, staffing, and emergency preparedness.

Our surgical facilities offer:

• AAAASF or Joint Commission accreditation

• Board-certified anesthesia providers

• Highly trained surgical nursing teams

• Strict infection-control and monitoring protocols

• Immediate hospital privileges if required

We encourage patients to ask exactly where their surgery will occur—and we’re proud to provide that transparency.

4. A Culture of Safety, Transparency, and Patient Support

We believe exceptional patient care begins with honesty and ends with support. Appleton Plastic Surgery provides:

• Thorough, unhurried consultations

• Clear explanations of expected results, risks, and alternatives

• Evidence-based recommendations—without pressure or upselling

• Open communication and 24/7 postoperative support

Our philosophy is simple: Patient safety first. Natural aesthetics always. Transparency in every conversation.