You're finally ready to do it. Now, you've got to find the best plastic surgeon in Dallas for you. When it comes to transforming your body with a tummy tuck, the expertise of your plastic surgeon can make all the difference between a good result and a truly exceptional one.

Dr. John Burns MD, a leading Dallas plastic surgeon renowned for advanced techniques and natural aesthetic outcomes takes a unique approach to mommy makeovers. From precision in incision placement to advanced muscle-tightening techniques and cutting-edge liposuction, Dr. Burns goes beyond the basics to deliver world-class results. If you're considering a tummy tuck, keep reading to discover what sets a great plastic surgeon apart from an average surgeon.

Here are some points you'll want to reference when you're scheduling your abdominoplasty consultation.

What Makes a Great Tummy Tuck Surgeon?

A great plastic surgeon should possess a combination of exceptional personality traits. They should be an active listener, taking the time to understand their patient's desires and concerns. Empathy is crucial, as it allows the surgeon to connect with their patients on a deeper level, making the entire process more comfortable and reassuring. Additionally, a great surgeon should never rush through consultations, instead taking the time to address all questions fully and providing detailed, thoughtful answers. These traits contribute to a positive patient-surgeon relationship and are essential to setting the foundation for a quality experience and outcome.

Credentials & Experience First

First, your tummy tuck surgeon should be certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery, signaling that they have completed additional rigorous training in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

They should have privileges in a nearby hospital to handle any issue that might arise after your procedure. Your procedure should be done in a fully accredited facility under the care of a Board-Certified Anesthesiologist. Tummy tucks require muscle tightening which requires giving medication to relax the abdominal muscles to allow for adequate tightening. This requires general anesthesia thus tummy tucks done under less than general anesthesia won’t give the desired results.

Your surgeon should have years of experience doing tummy tucks, liposuction, and body contouring and have lots of before and after photographs. They should have body contouring as a primary focus of their practice.

Finally, you should meet the staff who will help take care of you after your procedure. A busy office will have dedicated knowledgeable staff available to answer your questions, take care of you after surgery, and guide you through the process.

Attention To Detail

Top-notch plastic surgeons pay meticulous attention to detail, including the crucial aspects of the incision line, abdominal etching, and definition, and the creation of a new belly button. Attending to these specifics is essential for achieving an outstanding outcome and ensuring that the surgical results appear as natural as possible, with minimal visible scarring and a sculpted, toned appearance. Simply removing fat during the procedure won't necessarily result in a sculpted waist, toned abs, or a curvy hourglass shape. Equally important is skillfully concealing the scar to achieve the best possible result.

Genuine Concern For Your Safety, Needs, and Goals

There is a fine line between a busy plastic surgeon and one that compromises quality over quantity. Some practices are more deals-driven, offering surgical specials to attract patients. These practices, while busy, often compromise safety and quality over quantity.  

They Ensure You're Healthy Enough To Have Surgery

Careful surgeons ensure you are physically prepared for the procedure and not just rushing off to surgery. You will get the best results if you are in good physical condition and at a safe Body Mass Index (BMI) less than 35. Patients who undergo the procedure with a higher BMI have a higher rate of complications and a less than adequate result. A careful surgeon will advise waiting until you are at a good weight to get the best results in the safest possible way.

Medical Clearance When Necessary

You may be asked to get a medical clearance from your primary care physician to make sure you are fit and safe for surgery. These steps are important to make sure you are safe, healthy, and get the best outcome.

Revision Policy Transparency

Plastic surgery is both an art and a science and all patients heal differently. You should inquire about any “touch-up” policy and make sure that there is a plan to address any post-surgery concerns. You want your office to continue your care after your procedure and beyond.

Their Results Demonstrate The Outcome You Desire

Make sure to carefully review before and after photos. Your surgeon should have a wide variety of photos showing different body types and results. Look for before photos that resemble your appearance and evaluate whether or not the post-surgical results meet your expectations. It's important to compare yourself to patients who have similar pre-surgery concerns. Ensure that the photos are taken with standardized lighting and positioning that match pre- and post-surgery so that you can make an honest evaluation of the results.

Why Their Patient Reviews Matter

When choosing a doctor, look for clinics with many reviews. Be aware that some reviews may be fake, so focus on detailed, original feedback. Don't let one or two bad reviews deter you, as no doctor can please everyone. Instead, look for patterns in the reviews- consistent negativity is a red flag. Ensure the plastic surgeon and his team are responsive and honest. These qualities should come through as you read the reviews.

Go With Your Gut

When choosing a tummy tuck surgeon, it's important to trust your instincts and consider how comfortable you feel in their presence. Ask yourself the following questions: "Do I enjoy spending time with this surgeon?" "Can I trust them to recommend what is safe and right for me?" "Am I confident in asking them or their team any questions I may have throughout the process?" You should feel both comfortable and confident in your surgeon and his care team.