Social media has swept the world. Millions of people around the world use sites like Facebook and Twitter to keep up with friends, family, and all the daily events that matter to them. Did you know sites such as these can help you find a plastic surgeon that’s perfect for you?
When it comes to finding the right doctor, research is a key factor. You’ll want to know if the doctor is board certified as a plastic surgeon, and that they specialize in the procedure you’re interested in; whether you’re after liposuction, Thermage treatment, or any other procedure, you’ll want a doctor who could perform it blindfolded. This information can usually be found by looking at their websites or calling their office.
But the more subtle things, like personality, bedside manner, and his or her approach to follow-up treatment, would be harder to glean from their websites in most cases. This is where Facebook comes in.
More and more plastic surgeons are building an online presence on social media sites like Facebook, where they update their status, answer patient questions, and share studies and other topical items in the world of plastic surgery.
“I think social media is one of the greatest things that’s come along in terms of allowing a prospective patient to get to know their doctor before they walk into an examining room,” said David Reath, MD, ASPS Member Surgeon. “The nature of how doctor’s communicate on things like Facebook really shows their personality.
So before you set up a consultation with a prospective surgeon, check and see if he or she has a Facebook page. If so, peruse it and try and glean what they might be like and if they’re a good fit for you. But if a doctor you’re interested in doesn’t have a Facebook page, don’t discount them; social media is just one handy way to get to know your doctor.
