Houston Plastic Surgery Blog

When it comes to plastic surgery, the term ‘Board Certified’ means a physician has achieved Board Certification obtained only through the American Board of Plastic Surgery, awarded only after the physician has:

• Completed a formal residency in Plastic Surgery
• Passed a rigorous written examination
• Passed a difficult oral examination

In the United States, certification is voluntary. Board certification, however, indicates a physician’s exceptional expertise in his or her specialty as well as providing consumers with a method for measuring a physician’s knowledge, experience and skills.

Before a physician can apply for board certification, he or she must have completed at minimum:

• College
• Medical School
• A one year Internship in General Surgery
• 3-5 years of Residency in a general specialty
• Additional Residency in Plastic Surgery

Why is Board Certification important? The American Board of Plastic Surgery says it best when they explain, ”Finding the right doctor is essential to your good health. ABMS Member Board Certified Specialists are leaders in their field because they voluntarily participate in lifelong learning to keep their skills and knowledge current. They demonstrate their commitment to quality clinical outcomes, patient safety and a responsive, patient-centered practice through participation in a continuous Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program.”

Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a plastic surgeon in Houston, Texas offering all aspects of plastic surgery. Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Lapuerta to discuss your plastic surgery needs.