Why Choose Only a 'Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon'? Unlocking the Secret to Safe and Lasting Beauty by Dr. Teng of Aurora Clinic Surat Thani - Koh Samui
- SPARK IDEA
- Aug 5
- 28 min read
Hello everyone, I'm Dr. Apiruk Wongsaowasup, or as many know me, "Dr. Teng," the owner of Aurora Clinic, a plastic surgery and aesthetic clinic in Surat Thani and Koh Samui. Throughout my career in plastic surgery, I've met countless individuals who have sought me out with varying strong desires for "beauty." Some wish to enhance their confidence by looking younger, some want to reshape their bodies for better proportions, and many others face concerns due to undesirable outcomes from making the wrong choices.
In today's information-rich era, access to aesthetic surgery services seems easier than ever. However, it's also an era full of confusion and risks. Choosing "who" will take care of your beauty and health is even more important than "what" procedure you undergo. I always emphasize to my patients that "true beauty must come with safety," and the cornerstone of that safety lies in choosing only a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" or a "specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery" who is officially certified by the Thai Medical Council.
Today, I want to take you all on a journey to uncover why selecting a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, a surgical doctor specializing specifically in this field, is absolutely essential and the "most worthwhile investment" for lasting beauty and long-term peace of mind.
The Anatomy of a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon": The Essence of Distinct Expertise
Often, I hear questions from patients, or even acquaintances, like, "Aren't all plastic surgeons the same?" or "Is a doctor who performs aesthetic surgery considered a plastic surgeon?" I understand that from a general perspective, it's easy to misunderstand because today there are many medical facilities and aesthetic clinics offering services, and many doctors perform cosmetic surgeries or procedures. But what I want to emphasize and help you deeply understand today is that the term "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" carries a much deeper meaning. It signifies the "essence of distinct expertise" and represents a path that requires intense training incomparable to that of a general practitioner.
Becoming a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon is not easy and demands immense dedication and commitment. This path is like a long journey filled with continuous learning, all to acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to create the highest level of beauty and safety for every patient.
The Long and Intensive Path to Becoming a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon"
Imagine creating a masterpiece. The artist doesn't just have good tools; they must have a fundamental understanding of artistic composition, light, shadow, and color, and they must practice drawing and sculpting techniques for a long time until they become experts. Similarly, becoming a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon requires an equally profound cultivation process, with key steps as follows:
Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) Degree: 6 Years
Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) Degree: 6 Years This is the starting point of the journey. Every medical student must spend six full years at university, building the strongest medical foundation. From the first year, they meticulously study "Anatomy," delving deeply into every part of the human body, which is crucial for all surgical branches. They also study "Physiology" to understand how organs and body systems function, "Pharmacology" to learn about drugs and their effects, "Pathology" to study disease development, and "Microbiology" related to pathogens and infections.
After theoretical studies, medical students must undertake practical training in hospitals, known as "ward rotations," across various medical disciplines: Internal Medicine (general non-surgical diseases), General Surgery (learning surgical fundamentals), Pediatrics (child care), Obstetrics and Gynecology (pregnant women and women's health), General Practice, and Emergency Medicine. This stage of training provides doctors with a broad foundational knowledge of various illnesses, enabling them to make preliminary diagnoses and provide comprehensive medical care. It's the establishment of a solid foundation for becoming a doctor who cares for human health.
Internship/General Practice: 1-3 Years
Internship/General Practice: 1-3 Years Upon graduating with a Doctor of Medicine degree, every doctor must complete an internship or "service term" in provincial hospitals for 1-3 years (depending on the system at different times). In this stage, doctors work as general practitioners, responsible for real patient care in various situations, from inpatient wards, emergency rooms, examination rooms, and operating theaters.
This period is crucial for cultivating clinical skills, making decisions under pressure, managing emergencies, learning to communicate with patients and their families, collaborating with various medical team members, and truly learning to be responsible for patients' lives. This direct experience helps forge a strong foundation for doctors to become specialists in the future.
General Surgery Residency: 3-4 years
General Surgery Residency and Plastic Surgery Residency: 5 years For doctors aspiring to become a Board-Certified Surgeon, especially a plastic surgeon, the path often begins by entering a General Surgery Residency program. This is an even more intensive training phase. Doctors must spend 3-4 years learning and practicing all aspects of surgery on major internal organs.
In General Surgery, doctors are trained in correct surgical principles, procedural techniques, wound care, managing potential surgical complications, and comprehensive patient care before, during, and after surgery. The training covers surgeries in various systems, such as the digestive system (stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder), abdomen, head and neck (thyroid gland), chest (lungs, esophagus), vascular surgery, and trauma surgery.
Training in this field builds an exceptionally strong surgical foundation, providing doctors with a deep understanding of human physiology and pathology, and the ability to systematically manage complex surgical problems. This is an essential skill before advancing to the more delicate field of plastic surgery.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency: Another 2-3 Years
This is the core and the point that completely differentiates a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" from other medical fields. After intensive general surgery training, doctors must enter a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency program for another 2-3 years. This is a profound and comprehensive learning experience in all aspects of "aesthetic and reconstructive surgery" specifically.
Reconstructive Surgery Expertise
In this part, doctors receive rigorous training in correcting deformities and defects of the body caused by various reasons, whether:
Congenital abnormalities: Such as Cleft Lip and Palate, syndactyly, or polydactyly.
Injuries and accidents: Such as Burn Reconstruction, Facial Fractures repair, severe tissue damage repair.
Post-cancer surgery: Such as Breast Reconstruction after breast cancer surgery, closing large wounds after skin cancer surgery.
They learn and practice advanced techniques: Skin Grafting, Flap Surgery (Local, Regional, and Free Flaps), Tissue Expander use, and, most importantly, "Microsurgery," a surgical technique using a microscope to connect very small blood vessels and nerves, requiring extreme delicacy and precision. These skills allow plastic surgeons to "create" new tissues or "transfer" tissues from one part of the body to another to restore both the form and function of the body.
Aesthetic/Cosmetic Surgery Expertise
This is the part many people are familiar with. Building on the strong foundation of reconstructive surgery, doctors apply the knowledge and skills gained to cosmetic surgery, which is not just about "correcting" defects but about "improving" and "elevating" them to be better, more beautiful, and more natural, while preserving the individual's unique identity.
Facial Surgery: Facelift to correct "wrinkled, saggy face" and "crepey neck," Blepharoplasty (double eyelid surgery), Rhinoplasty (nose augmentation), Mentoplasty (chin augmentation), facial contouring.
Breast Surgery: Breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift.
Body and Extremity Surgery: Liposuction, Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), arm, leg, and buttock lifts.
In this section, doctors learn not only surgical techniques but also "aesthetics," or an understanding of beauty, the golden ratio, and the balance of the face and body. This enables them to create results that not only correct problems but also enhance the patient's natural dimensions and beauty in the most harmonious way, producing results that look as natural as possible and align with each patient's specific needs.
Throughout this 2-3 year training, doctors work in leading university hospitals or medical schools with complex and diverse plastic surgery cases, under the close supervision of national expert faculty, who fully impart invaluable knowledge, techniques, and experience to their students.
Board Certification
Board Certification After completing the entire plastic surgery specialty training program, doctors must undergo an examination to receive the "Certificate of Knowledge and Expertise in the Practice of Medicine, Plastic Surgery Branch" from the Thai Medical Council, which is the highest regulatory body for the medical profession in Thailand.
This examination is intensive and covers all aspects of learning, including a written exam to assess theoretical knowledge, an oral exam to evaluate diagnostic and treatment planning abilities, and a practical exam to assess surgical skills.
Receiving this certificate is an official confirmation that the doctor is a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon," certified to possess knowledge, ability, and skills at an international standard, capable of practicing safely and with maximum efficiency (for me, it's license number ว.35777, which you can verify with the Medical Council). This is what differentiates them from doctors who may have only completed short courses in aesthetics.
The "Comprehensive" and "Well-Rounded" Knowledge of a Plastic Surgeon
From this long and intensive educational and training path, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons truly possess "comprehensive" and "well-rounded" knowledge and abilities, which are fundamentally different from general practitioners or specialists in other fields:
Deep and Comprehensive Understanding of Anatomy in All Body Parts
A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon doesn't just know external structures or only one organ system. We know in depth the relationships between skin layers, fat, muscles, fascia, nerves, blood vessels, and bone structures in every area of the body, from head to toe. This understanding is crucial for planning complex surgeries, such as Flap transfers from one part of the body to another for reconstruction, or a Facelift that requires delicate handling of multiple tissue layers.
Mastery of Correct and Delicate Surgical Principles
We are trained in surgical techniques that minimize tissue trauma (Gentle Tissue Handling), which helps reduce swelling, bruising, blood loss, and accelerates recovery. This also includes effective hemostasis techniques, the most meticulous suturing to minimize visible scarring, and strict infection prevention.
Understanding of Aesthetics and the Art of Beauty (Aesthetic Sense)
This is what makes Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons exceptionally distinguished. We don't just perform surgery to "fix" or "solve problems." We are cultivated to have the "eye" of an artist, capable of perceiving the Golden Ratio, balance, harmony, and hidden beauty in each individual's face and body. We learn to create results that not only solve problems but also enhance the patient's natural dimensions and beauty in a harmonious way, producing results that look "naturally beautiful," not ones that look "beautiful but unnatural" or "like they had surgery."
I hope this detailed information helps everyone understand the difference and true value of being a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" and realize that choosing a Board-Certified Surgeon who is officially certified by the Medical Council is the most important thing for long-term safety and satisfaction with the results.
"Plastic Surgery" is Not Just "Surgery," It's "Creation": Dr. Teng's Perspective
Many people might view "surgery" as a general "operation," merely a medical procedure using a scalpel to incise, cut, and stitch to correct abnormalities or alter external appearance. But from my perspective, as a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has undergone long and intensive training, I see "plastic surgery" not just as a general "operation," but as the "art of creation."
Imagine a great artist creating a masterpiece sculpture. They don't just haphazardly chisel stone or aimlessly brush paint; every movement, every detail, stems from a deep understanding of the raw material, a clear vision, precision in using their tools, and most importantly, a "feeling" and "aesthetic sense" they wish to convey.
Similarly, in the world of plastic surgery, especially when I create beauty on a patient's face or body, whether it's correcting "wrinkled, saggy face" and "crepey neck" with a Facelift, reshaping a nose, or enhancing beauty in other areas, I don't just apply surgical techniques from textbooks or follow prescribed steps. Instead, I combine the precise "science" of medicine with the perfect "art" of beauty creation.
From "Correction" to "Creation": The Complex Journey of Plastic Surgery
To understand why plastic surgery is more than just an operation, we must look back at the foundation of a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon's training:
Emphasizing "Reconstructive Surgery" as a Strong Foundation
Emphasizing "Reconstructive Surgery" as a Strong Foundation As I mentioned in the previous section, the training of a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon begins with intensive learning and practice in "reconstructive surgery," which involves correcting severe bodily abnormalities. This includes repairing faces damaged by severe accidents, reconstructing the bodies of burn patients, correcting congenital deformities such as cleft lip and palate, or creating new organs after cancer surgery (e.g., breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery).
In reconstructive work, the surgeon does not have an "ideal template" of beauty to adhere to. Instead, they must work under the limitations of the remaining tissue, be a clever Problem Solver, think outside the box, and have the ability to "create" new tissue or "transfer" tissue from one part to another (e.g., using Flap techniques or Microsurgery) to restore both function and form to as close to normal as possible. These skills teach us critical analysis, complex planning, and the most delicate tissue handling under challenging conditions.
Applying to "Aesthetic/Cosmetic Surgery": Elevating to Excellence
From Flabby Tummy to Taut Abs: Abdominoplasty with Slim V-Shaped Navel for Post-partum Mothers using the SEBT Mommy Makeover Technique | Tummy Tuck by Dr. Apiruk, Plastic Surgeon - Get Your Body Back in Beautiful Shape Once a strong foundation from reconstructive surgery is established, we then apply that knowledge and those skills to "aesthetic surgery," which is not just about "correcting" defects but about "improving" and "elevating" them to be even better, more beautiful, and more natural, while preserving the individual's unique identity.
It's like a world-class chef using their mastery of basic culinary skills to transform ordinary ingredients into an exquisite, delicious, and beautifully presented dish. Plastic surgeons are similar. We use our anatomical knowledge, meticulous surgical techniques, and understanding of aesthetics to create beauty unique to each patient.
Emphasizing "Harmony" and "Naturalness": The Heart of Body Art
The core of a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon's "creation" is to produce the most "harmonious" and "natural" results:
Holistic View of the Physique: Not Just a Single Point
When a patient comes to me for a Facelift to address "wrinkled, saggy face" and "crepey neck" issues, I don't just look at wrinkles or isolated sagging. I consider the overall picture of the entire face, from the forehead, eyes, cheeks, nasolabial folds, to the jawline and neck, assessing how they relate to each other and whether they are in balance.
True artistry must consider the "overall composition." Similarly, a plastic surgeon designs a surgical plan that integrates all parts seamlessly to create harmony and a naturally youthful appearance, avoiding making one part overly taut while another remains saggy, which would look unnatural and jarring.
Aesthetics of Balance: Crafting Uniqueness
I believe in creating "balanced" beauty. I apply my understanding of aesthetic principles, the Golden Ratio, and universal beauty standards, adapting them to each patient's unique structure and individuality.
The key is to create beauty that still embodies "you" in your best version, not to transform you into a new person or give you someone else's face. A good surgery brings out your natural beauty potential to shine, preventing an "overdone," "fake," or "surgical look" that we often see and that makes the face appear unnaturally stiff.
Crafting Individuality: Celebrating Your Uniqueness
As an artist working with human beings, I understand that no two people are 100% identical. Everyone has their unique identity. True beauty is when the result clearly reflects who you are and enhances your confidence in your own way.
More Complex Assessment: Looking Through to Sustainable Results
The dimension of "creation" in plastic surgery also includes a more delicate and complex assessment:
Forecasting Long-term Results
With a deep understanding of the aging process of each tissue layer (skin, fat, muscle, bone) and expertise in managing various tissue layers, such as lifting the SMAS layer in a Facelift, I can predict how the results will last in the long term.
Therefore, treatment planning is not just about immediate problem-solving but also about considering the durability and sustainable results for the future, so patients don't have to return to fix the same problems again in a short period.
Personalized Planning: Your Unique Blueprint
There is no "one-size-fits-all" surgical blueprint for everyone. Every treatment plan at Aurora Clinic is a "Customized Blueprint," designed after I have thoroughly understood each patient's facial structure, needs, lifestyle, and expectations.
This is a blend of the science of problem analysis with the art of design to achieve the best results specifically for "you," not applying the same technique to everyone.
Managing Expectations: Sincerity is an Art
As an artist, I am well aware of the limitations of "materials" and "tools." A good plastic surgeon communicates honestly and transparently about what can and cannot be achieved. This is crucial for building correct understanding and preventing disappointment.
Delicacy in Every Dimension: From Incision to Suture
The art of creation in plastic surgery permeates every step, even in subtle details that may go unnoticed by the general public:
Precise and Delicate Incisions
Making an incision is not just using a scalpel; it's drawing lines that consider the skin's natural tension lines, hairline direction, and the location to hide scars as minimally as possible (e.g., in a Facelift, scars are hidden along the hairline, in front of the ear, or behind the ear). This is the art of "concealing" the traces of creation to make the result look perfectly natural.
Gentle Tissue Handling
Throughout the surgery, I handle every tissue layer with the utmost care and gentleness (Gentle Tissue Handling), be it skin, fat, or muscle layers, to minimize trauma, bruising, blood loss, and post-operative swelling. This leads to faster healing and smoother, more natural-looking results.
It's like a sculptor meticulously and gently molding clay to achieve the most beautiful form, not just roughly cutting.
Artistic Suturing
Suturing is another crucial art. I use multi-layered closure techniques, meticulously stitching the subcutaneous layers and supporting tissues to reduce tension on the outermost skin layer. The skin is then sutured with fine, delicate threads to ensure the resulting scar is a thin, subtle line that blends seamlessly with the skin.
I hope this detailed information helps everyone see the different and profound dimensions of "plastic surgery"—that it's not just "surgery" but "creation." And to realize that choosing a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who truly understands both the "science" and the "art" is the key to safe, natural, and lasting beauty. My team and I at Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui, a plastic surgery and aesthetic clinic, are ready to be a part of creating beauty for everyone.
Why Only a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon"? Reasons You Can Trust
After we've deeply understood the long and intensive training path of a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, as well as the philosophy that views plastic surgery as the art of creation, the crucial question arises: "Why should we choose only a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?"
The answer to this question isn't just about "credibility" or "certificates." It's an "investment" in the highest level of safety, in natural and sustainable results, and in the peace of mind you'll experience. These are direct outcomes of the knowledge, skills, and ethics that a Board-Certified Surgeon or a surgical specialist in this field has been rigorously trained in. I'll explain the reasons you can trust them in four key dimensions:
Maximum Safety (Safety First and Foremost): The Essential Foundation That Cannot Be Compromised
For me, "safety" is at the heart of all types of surgery. No matter how beautiful the result, if it lacks safety, it's meaningless and can lead to tragedy. Every Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon is trained to strictly adhere to this principle of safety.
Reducing the Risk of Serious Complications with Precise Anatomy
Deep Anatomical Understanding
As I’ve explained, the more detailed anatomical study undertaken by a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon (compared to a general practitioner) means they profoundly and precisely understand the locations of critical structures within the body. This includes vital nerves that control facial movement (e.g., the facial nerve), small and large blood vessels nourishing tissues, and other important organs. Knowing these exact locations allows the surgeon to plan and perform surgery safely, minimizing the risk of damage to nerves that could cause facial asymmetry or muscle paralysis, or injury to blood vessels that might lead to excessive bleeding or subcutaneous hematoma—a severe complication. For instance, in a Facelift, proper and careful management of the SMAS layer is crucial to avoid injury to the facial nerve, which could result in a crooked mouth, droopy eyebrow, or inability to fully close the eye.
Delicate and Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
Intensive training teaches us to use delicate surgical techniques (Gentle Tissue Handling), which means touching and manipulating the patient's tissues as little and as gently as possible. This also includes clean dissection of tissue layers and meticulous hemostasis (control of bleeding). All of these practices help reduce tissue trauma, post-operative swelling and bruising, and the risk of complications such as infection or hematoma formation.
Comprehensive Pre-operative Patient Assessment
A Board-Certified Surgeon won't rush into surgery if the patient isn't ready. I conduct a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and detailed laboratory tests, consulting with other specialists if necessary. This ensures the patient is healthy enough for surgery and can safely undergo anesthesia. Such meticulous screening reduces the risk of systemic complications that might arise, like heart or lung issues or drug allergies.
Standardized Operating Rooms and Safe Equipment
Plastic surgery and aesthetic clinics with resident Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons typically invest in international-standard operating rooms. These facilities include stringent instrument sterilization systems, sterile air control systems (HEPA filters), and modern medical equipment that is regularly maintained. This ensures a clean, sterile surgical environment, effectively preventing post-operative infections.
Anesthesia Management by Expert Anesthesiologists
For major procedures, such as a Facelift, which often require general anesthesia, it's vital to have a Board-Certified Anesthesiologist present. They closely monitor and control the anesthesia throughout the entire procedure. The anesthesiologist continuously observes the patient's vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, lung function) and manages any potential emergencies promptly. This is the most crucial "safety net" that makes major surgeries significantly safer, a level of care often absent in practices run by general practitioners who are not Board-Certified Surgeons.
Natural & Sustainable Results: Crafting Lasting Beauty
Good plastic surgery isn't just about making you "beautiful"; it must be "naturally beautiful" and "sustainably beautiful." This is a direct outcome of a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon's expertise.
Delicate Management of Deep Tissue Layers
A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon doesn't simply "pull the skin tight"—a technique that often yields stiff, overly taut, and temporary results. Instead, we deeply understand and are skilled in managing the "deep tissue structures" that are the primary cause of sagging. For example, in a Facelift, we meticulously and precisely lift and reposition the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer, a crucial layer of muscle and fascia beneath the skin. Proper management of this layer leads to a natural-looking lift, preventing a pulled appearance, and providing results that are far more durable than merely addressing the superficial skin.
Similarly, when addressing a "crepey neck," we meticulously tighten the Platysma muscle in the neck area and manage excess fat appropriately, resulting in a smooth neck and a defined jawline. These results are inherently more sustainable and natural.
Creating Harmony and Proportion
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons possess an "artist's eye" that allows them to view the face or body holistically. We understand the principles of aesthetics, the Golden Ratio, and facial balance, which guide us in planning treatments that don't just correct isolated issues. Instead, we refine every part of the face or body to achieve seamless harmony and truly enhance your natural beauty. This ensures the final result looks like "you at your best," not "someone else" or "like you've had surgery."
Durability of Results
Thanks to profound and delicate surgical techniques, such as SMAS layer management and deep-level structural correction, the results of surgery performed by a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon are more durable and sustainable than procedures that only address superficial concerns. It's like building a house with a solid foundation—it will be stronger and last longer than one built without proper groundwork.
Artfully Concealed Scars
One of the significant concerns for patients is "scars." Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons are trained in the art of placing surgical incisions in the least visible positions, such as along the hairline, behind the ear, or within the body's natural creases (e.g., in a Facelift, scars are hidden along the hairline, in front of the ear, or behind the ear). This also includes meticulous multi-layered suturing techniques to ensure the resulting scars are as thin, faint, and blended with the skin as possible, making them almost imperceptible.
Expert Complication Management: When the Unexpected Happens
Even with meticulous planning, all surgeries inherently carry a risk of complications. The most crucial aspect is the doctor's ability to handle such situations:
Proactive Prevention
With extensive accumulated knowledge and experience, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons deeply understand the risks and potential complications associated with each procedure. This enables them to identify risk factors in the patient and plan the surgery to minimize the likelihood of those complications occurring as effectively as possible. We don't just wait for problems to happen; we actively strive to prevent them from the outset.
Rapid and Accurate Diagnosis and Resolution
Should complications arise, whether it's abnormal bleeding, infection, nerve damage, or any other potential issue, a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon possesses the clinical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and experience to resolve complex problems quickly and accurately. This is a crucial distinction. Doctors who are not Board-Certified Surgeons may lack the adequate skills and experience to handle such emergencies promptly, which could lead to permanent undesirable outcomes or even be life-threatening.
The ability to manage complications efficiently and effectively makes the difference between "good results" and "disaster," and it assures patients that if any problems occur, the doctor will be ready to provide full assistance and care.
Ethics and Accountability: Building Lasting Trust
Beyond knowledge and skills, ethics and accountability are what truly solidify a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon as a trustworthy resource for patients.
Adherence to Professional Practice and Medical Council Ethics
Being a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the Medical Council means adhering strictly to professional ethical principles. This includes providing patients with accurate and complete information about the treatment, its risks, and expected outcomes, without exaggerating claims or pressuring decisions, and always prioritizing the patient's best interests.
Providing Accurate and Complete Information
A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon will offer straightforward consultation about what can and cannot be achieved given the patient's body structure and limitations. This creates accurate understanding and prevents future disappointment. I believe that sincerity and transparency form the bedrock of a strong doctor-patient relationship.
Accountability to Patients Throughout the Process (Continuity of Care)
A good Board-Certified Surgeon takes responsibility for patient care from the very first consultation step, through planning, surgical execution, close post-operative care, and long-term follow-up. If patients have any questions, concerns, or problems after surgery, the doctor will be available to listen, advise, and provide necessary ongoing care, rather than simply completing the surgery and ending the relationship. This fosters immense trust and peace of mind for the patient.
In summary, choosing a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" for plastic surgery, be it a Facelift or other procedures, isn't just about selecting a "skilled" doctor. It's about choosing a doctor with profound knowledge, rigorously trained skills, artistic vision, the highest safety standards, and unwavering ethics and accountability towards the patient throughout their journey.
I, Dr. Apiruk Wongsaowasup, or Dr. Teng, of Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui, a plastic surgery and aesthetic clinic, affirm that these areas of expertise are what we uphold and provide to every patient. This ensures that your investment in beauty yields the highest safety, natural and beautiful results, and lasting confidence. I sincerely hope that these reasons will help you make a wise decision for the beauty you truly deserve.
In-depth Guide to Choosing Your "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" with Confidence: Your Guide to Trustworthy Beauty
Now that we’ve thoroughly discussed the importance and outstanding qualifications of a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, I believe many of you understand and realize the necessity of choosing a Board-Certified Surgeon for aesthetic surgery.
However, even with this understanding, choosing the right doctor amidst the many options available today can still be challenging. I fully understand this concern, and as a caring surgeon, I want to provide a practical and actionable "guide" to help you choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon with confidence, safety, and who best meets your specific needs.
Deciding to undergo surgery, whether it's a Facelift to address "wrinkled, saggy face" and "crepey neck" or other procedures, is a significant investment in yourself. The wisest investment is in "safety" and "quality." Here are the steps you can take when considering your choice of surgical doctor:
Verify Board Certification and Credentials: The First and Most Crucial Step
Utmost Importance
This is the first and most critical hurdle you should never overlook. Being an officially "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" certified by the Medical Council confirms that the doctor has undergone long, intensive, and comprehensive training according to the highest professional standards. This is fundamentally different from general practitioners who may only have completed short cosmetic training courses.
Accurate Verification Methods
Thai Medical Council Website
This is the most reliable source of information. You can visit the Medical Council's website (www.tmc.or.th) or search for "ตรวจสอบรายชื่อแพทย์" (verify doctor list) on Google. Then, enter the doctor's full name or their medical license number (which usually starts with the abbreviation "ว." followed by numbers, such as "ว.35777" for myself). What you need to look for is "วุฒิบัตรแสดงความรู้ความชำนาญในการประกอบวิชาชีพเวชกรรม สาขาศัลยกรรมตกแต่ง" (Certificate of Knowledge and Expertise in the Practice of Medicine, Plastic Surgery Branch). If it clearly states this, it indicates that the doctor is a certified Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon.
Inquire at the Clinic/Hospital
Standard clinics or hospitals typically display the doctor's license and board certification prominently in a visible area. Alternatively, you can directly ask the clinic staff.
Beware of Vague and Misleading Advertisements
Currently, many advertisements use misleading terms such as "beauty specialist," "Aesthetic doctor," "completed beauty courses," or "X years of experience in aesthetics." These terms do not indicate that the doctor is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, meaning they may not have undergone the same extensive training in complex surgical procedures or complication management as a true plastic surgeon. Therefore, if you encounter such advertisements without clear mention of Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon status, consider it a red flag and exercise extra caution.
Experience and Expertise in Your Desired Procedure: The Depth of Difference
Importance of Specialized Experience
Even if a doctor is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, plastic surgery encompasses many subspecialties. Some surgeons may have exceptionally high expertise and experience in certain types of procedures. For instance, some may specialize in rhinoplasty, others in breast surgery, and some (like myself) have extensive expertise and experience in Facelift surgery, facial contouring, and other facial procedures.
Careful Inquiry and Observation
During your consultation, you can directly ask the doctor about their experience with the procedure you're interested in, such as, "How many Facelift cases have you performed, Doctor?" or "Which Facelift techniques are you particularly skilled in, Doctor?" The doctor's response should demonstrate a deep understanding, not just a superficial answer.
Observe whether the doctor can clearly explain the techniques used, their rationale for choosing those techniques, and the differences in results.
If the doctor has pursued further education like Fellowships (subspecialties) related to your desired procedure, that's another indicator of even deeper expertise.
Review Portfolio and Testimonials: A Reflection of Capability
Portfolio (Before & After Photos)
This is tangible proof of the doctor's ability. It's essential to request to see "before and after" photos of actual patients (with their consent).
What to Look for in Photos
Clarity and Consistency: Photos should be clear, show various angles (front, side), and have consistent lighting. Avoid heavily edited images.
Naturalness of Results: See if the results look natural (especially for Facelifts, they shouldn't appear too tight, stiff, or distorted) and align with your aesthetic goals.
Diversity of Cases: Look for cases with similar concerns to yours to assess how well the doctor can address comparable problems.
Caution
Beware of clinics or doctors who show only a few exceptionally good cases or use stock photos that aren't their own work. The consistency of results across many cases is more important than a single perfect photo.
Patient Testimonials/Reviews
Seek information from real patient reviews on various platforms such as Google My Business, the clinic's Facebook Page, or specialized review websites.
What to Look for in Reviews
Overall Experience: How do patients describe their experience with the doctor and team, from consultation to surgery and post-operative care?
Communication and Service: Does the doctor communicate well? Do they answer questions thoroughly? How is the team's service?
Results and Satisfaction: Are patients satisfied with their results? Do they mention how complications (if any) were managed?
Diverse Opinions: Try to read reviews from multiple sources to get a well-rounded perspective, and critically evaluate both positive and negative reviews (if any).
Detailed and Honest Consultation: The Heart of Understanding
Two-Way Communication is Key
The initial consultation is a crucial opportunity for you to evaluate the doctor and for the doctor to understand you. A good consultation should involve quality two-way communication.
What to Expect from a Consultation
Attentive Listening: The doctor should actively listen to your needs, concerns, and motivations, not just follow a script.
Comprehensive Assessment: The doctor should conduct a thorough assessment of your facial structure, body, and overall health, explaining the underlying issues.
Clear Procedure Explanation: The doctor should clearly explain the surgical techniques to be used (e.g., specific Facelift techniques), the surgical steps, advantages, disadvantages, potential risks, possible complications, post-operative care, and recovery time in easy-to-understand language.
Realistic Expectation Management: A good doctor will be honest and professional in providing accurate information about realistic expected outcomes, without making exaggerated promises or guaranteeing perfect, flawless results. Surgery is about improvement, not magic.
Opportunity for Questions: You should have the opportunity to ask all your questions, and the doctor should answer them with detailed and clear knowledge and understanding, without making you feel rushed.
Red Flags During Consultation
A doctor who is rushed or doesn't allocate enough time for consultation.
A doctor who doesn't answer your questions directly or gives vague responses.
A doctor who pressures you to make an immediate decision or offers urgent promotions.
A doctor who speaks disparagingly of other doctors or makes exaggerated claims.
Clinic/Hospital Standards: The Safety of the Facility
Importance of the Facility
Even with the most skilled Board-Certified Surgeon, if the surgical facility doesn't meet standards, it can pose risks.
What to Consider
Operating License: The clinic or medical facility should hold a valid operating license from the Ministry of Public Health.
Cleanliness and Hygiene: Observe the overall cleanliness of the facility. The operating room should be sterile, with proper instrument sterilization systems and hygienic infectious waste management.
Equipment and Technology: The clinic should have modern, well-maintained medical equipment and instruments, especially those used for surgery and emergency life support.
Support Team: Ensure there is a well-trained team of nurses and other medical personnel ready to assist the doctor and care for patients.
Emergency Management System: The clinic should have a plan and equipment to handle medical emergencies quickly and efficiently (at Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui, I am confident that we meet all these standards).
Personal Connection and Trust: Your Own Intuition
Personal Intuition
After considering all the objective factors, the final, equally important aspect is your "personal feeling." You should feel comfortable speaking with the doctor, able to openly communicate your needs and concerns, and most importantly, you must feel "trust" in their knowledge, ability, and ethics.
Factors That Build Trust
Communication Style: Can you and the doctor communicate smoothly?
Sense of Security: Do you feel safe under this doctor's care?
Empathy: Does the doctor show empathy, understand your concerns, and care for you with compassion?
Don't Rush
Making a decision about surgery is significant. Take your time to gather information, consult with several doctors, and choose the one you feel most confident and trusting in.
I sincerely hope this detailed guide to choosing a Board-Certified Surgeon helps you make a wise decision for safe, lasting beauty, and importantly, the peace of mind that radiates from within. If you're looking for a plastic surgery and aesthetic clinic that embodies quality and ethics, I, Dr. Apiruk Wongsaowasup (Dr. Teng, ว.35777), and my team at Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui are ready to provide you with the utmost care and expertise.
Aurora Clinic: Expertise with Understanding and Care
Hello, I'm Dr. Apiruk Wongsaowasup, or Dr. Teng. Throughout this article, we've delved into the importance of choosing a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and why expertise in this field is key to safe and lasting beauty.
Now, I'd like to invite you to understand how, at Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui, our plastic surgery and aesthetic clinic, we put all the principles and philosophies mentioned into practice. We aim to ensure that every step of your journey towards beauty is filled with safety, satisfactory results, and peace of mind stemming from our understanding and attention to every detail.
At Aurora Clinic, we don't just focus on successfully completing medical procedures. We prioritize creating an exceptional experience, from the initial consultation to post-operative care, so you can achieve "lasting beauty" and "true confidence."
1. Aurora Clinic's Philosophy: "Lasting Beauty Begins with Understanding"
The heart of Aurora Clinic is the belief that "true and lasting beauty must begin with deep understanding." We believe that each patient is unique, with distinct concerns, expectations, and life contexts. Therefore, the most suitable treatment cannot be a "one-size-fits-all" solution.
Blending Science and Art for Personalized Beauty
We blend the "science" of precise medicine (derived from being a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon with intensive training) with the "art" of beauty creation (stemming from an artist's eye and an understanding of aesthetics). This allows us to design a "personalized" treatment plan for each patient. Whether it's correcting "wrinkled, saggy face" and "crepey neck" with a Facelift or improving other areas, we focus on bringing out your natural beauty potential most prominently, while maintaining your unique essence.
Our Goal is Lasting Confidence
We look beyond short-term post-operative results. We aspire for our patients to gain confidence that radiates from within. The beauty we create is not merely external appearance, but the fulfillment of self-esteem, the joy of seeing yourself as a better version, and the confidence to live life to its fullest potential.
2. Dr. Apiruk Wongsaowasup (Dr. Teng): Your Trustworthy Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
As the owner of a plastic surgery clinic, I, Dr. Apiruk Wongsaowasup (Dr. Teng, ว.35777), represent the expertise and care that Aurora Clinic provides:
Emphasizing Specialized Qualifications and Expertise
I am a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon officially certified by the Medical Council. This means I have undergone a long and intensive medical training path spanning over 10 years, ensuring I possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to perform complex plastic surgeries safely and effectively. This is especially true in facial plastic surgery, such as Facelift procedures, correcting drooping eyelids, sagging eyebrows, forehead wrinkles, and addressing neck laxity – all of which require a deep understanding of anatomy and precise surgical techniques from a true surgical doctor.
Care and Ethics with Experience
Years of experience as a Board-Certified Surgeon have taught me that surgery is not just about operating; it's also about caring for the patient's emotional well-being. Therefore, I prioritize:
Deep Listening: I take the time to attentively listen to your concerns, desires, and expectations to ensure I fully understand your goals.
Empathy: I understand that deciding on surgery can come with anxiety and uncertainty. I am ready to be an empathetic consultant and provide emotional support throughout your journey.
Sincerity and Transparency: I provide accurate, complete, and truthful information about the treatment process, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes, without exaggerating claims. This empowers you to make fully informed and comfortable decisions.
3. Holistic and Standardized Care: Confidence at Every Step
At Aurora Clinic, we adhere to the highest standards of patient care at every stage to ensure your safety and the best possible results:
Pre-operative Care: Comprehensive Preparation
In-depth Consultation and Health Assessment: We prioritize thorough consultations. I conduct a comprehensive health assessment, including your medical history, medications, and physical examination, to ensure you are healthy and ready for surgery as safely as possible.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment and your needs, I design a highly detailed treatment plan tailored to your facial and body structure and your specific desires. This ensures natural-looking results that best meet your goals.
Comprehensive Information: We clearly explain the surgical procedure (e.g., the Facelift technique to be used), risks, pre- and post-operative care, and recovery time, so you understand every aspect of the treatment.
Intra-operative Care: Maximum Precision and Safety
International Standard Operating Rooms: Both Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui have purpose-built operating rooms, legally licensed, clean, sterile, and equipped with modern, comprehensive medical equipment. This includes appropriate temperature and air pressure control systems to prevent infection and create the safest possible environment.
Precise and Delicate Surgical Techniques: I use modern, well-trained surgical techniques to minimize tissue trauma, reduce swelling and bruising, and promote rapid recovery, along with strict blood loss control for maximum safety.
Professional Team and Anesthesiologist: We have a team of well-trained nurses and other medical personnel ready to support me throughout the surgery. For procedures requiring general anesthesia, we collaborate with an expert Anesthesiologist who closely monitors your vital signs throughout the entire procedure, which is crucial for the safety of major surgeries.
Post-operative Care: Smooth Recovery and Lasting Results
Close Follow-up Care: We prioritize post-operative care. You'll have regular follow-up appointments so I can assess your recovery, advise on wound care, and answer any questions you may have.
Recovery Instructions: We provide clear and easy-to-understand instructions on self-care after surgery, diet, rest, and activities to avoid, ensuring a smooth recovery and enhanced results.
Always Available for Consultation: If you have any concerns or questions after surgery, our team is always ready to assist and consult, so you feel at ease and confident throughout your recovery journey.
4. Location and Accessibility: Your Preferred Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Clinic
For the convenience of all patients, Aurora Clinic, a plastic surgery and aesthetic clinic, has easily accessible branches in the South of Thailand:
Aurora Clinic, Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Clinic, Surat Thani
Aurora Clinic, Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Clinic, Koh Samui
Whether you're in Surat Thani province or on Koh Samui, you can access quality plastic surgery services at the same standard as clinics in Bangkok, without having to travel far. This makes pre- and post-operative care continuous and more convenient.
I sincerely hope that this detailed information about Aurora Clinic provides you with confidence in the expertise, understanding, and care we offer at every step. If you are considering aesthetic surgery or have concerns about a "wrinkled, saggy face" or "crepey neck" and are looking for a Board-Certified Surgeon you can trust, I, Dr. Apiruk Wongsaowasup (Dr. Teng, ว.35777), and the team at Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui are ready to welcome you and be a part of creating confidence in your life. Please feel free to consult with us.
Conclusion: A Smart Decision for the Beauty You Deserve
In an era where beauty can be crafted with medical science, the decision of "who" will be the creator of your beauty is more important than ever. Choosing a "Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon" is not just an option, but a "smart decision" that will provide you with the utmost safety, beautiful and natural results, and most importantly, lasting peace of mind and confidence.
Don't let seemingly easy phrases like "aesthetic doctor" or enticing prices overshadow the importance of true expertise and priceless safety. I invite everyone considering aesthetic surgery, whether it's a Facelift to address "wrinkled, saggy face" or "crepey neck," or other procedures, to consult with me and my team at Aurora Clinic Surat Thani and Koh Samui, a plastic surgery and aesthetic clinic. I am ready to be the surgical doctor you can trust, to collaboratively create beauty that is uniquely yours and reawaken your confidence.
Aurora Clinic Samui ✨
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/auroraclinicsamui
Add line to book promotions: https://lin.ee/PJSVPOv6 (@aurorasamui)
TEL: 083-629-1446
Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Aurora Clinic Surat Thani ✨
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/auroraclinicsurat
Tel: 096-652-0899
Line: @auroraclinic
Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
We warmly welcome everyone and are ready to help you become beautiful and confident in your own unique way.
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