Top surgeons for aesthetic surgery
Choosing the right surgeon is the most important decision before cosmetic surgery. Here is how to recognise qualified specialists.
This is a translation for convenience. The German version and the insurers' policy terms prevail.
What makes a good surgeon?
The surgeon's qualification is the decisive factor for a good result and a minimal complication rate. You should pay attention to these criteria when choosing a doctor:
The right title
Look for a doctor with the official professional title "specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery" (Facharzt für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie) or "specialist in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery" (Facharzt für Plastische, Rekonstruktive und Ästhetische Chirurgie). This specialist title requires several years of specialisation and is the highest standard in Germany.
Be careful with doctors who merely call themselves "aesthetic surgeons" – this is not a protected title.
Membership of professional associations
Membership of recognised professional associations is an important quality indicator:
- DGPRÄC – German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
- DGÄPC – German Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- VDÄPC – Association of German Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
- ISAPS – International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Surgical volume and experience
Ask how many comparable operations the doctor performs each year. A high degree of specialisation and a large number of cases considerably reduce the risk of complications. An experienced breast surgeon should perform at least 100–200 breast augmentations per year.
Transparency and information
A good surgeon takes enough time for the consultation, explains risks clearly and does not apply pressure. He shows you before-and-after pictures of his own patients and, where appropriate, enables contact with former patients.
Important note: Complications can occur even with the best surgeon. Follow-up cost insurance (Folgekostenversicherung) makes sense regardless of the doctor's quality – because capsular contracture (Kapselfibrose), scarring and other complications can affect anyone.
Finding qualified specialists – doctor search
The professional associations maintain their own member directories, which allow a doctor's qualification to be verified. In addition, individual providers run directories of their own.
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Irrespective of this: always verify the specialist title and association membership yourself, through the professional bodies named above.
Warning signs when choosing a doctor
- No specialist title: "Aesthetic surgeon" is not a protected term.
- No personal consultation: Reputable doctors take at least 30–60 minutes.
- Pressure during the sales talk: Special prices "today only" are an alarm signal.
- No physical examination: No operation without an examination.
- No complete information about risks: Required by law – anyone who omits it breaches their duties.