What to look for in a cosmetic surgeon?

Do your homework: Remember, anyone can call themselves a "cosmetic surgeon". Quite different than a "board-certified plastic surgeon", which is what you want. Interview several surgeons. Make sure they do the operation you are considering frequently. Study their before & after photos. Ask hard questions about complications. Talk to other patients.

Dialogue: Ask questions and make sure your concerns are heard and answered. Talk about what you don't want and what you do. Make sure you have a comfortable dialogue with whomever you choose and that you are comfortable with his or her work and attention to you.

Credentials & Trust: Surgeons who get Boarded by the American Board of Plastic Surgery have a much more rigorous and comprehensive training, so be sure the surgeon is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery. Start by using PlasticSurgery.org. Be sure to have a consult and ask a lot of questions to be sure you understand your options and the surgeon understands your goals. If it does't feel "right," keep looking.