Why Choosing a Facial Plastic Surgeon Matters

During consultations, our patients sometimes ask, “Is there is really a difference between a plastic surgeon who performs aesthetic surgery on the body and face, and a facial plastic surgeon?”

It’s a reasonable question. In Des Moines, women and men considering facial plastic surgery can choose from several qualified surgeons. But facial plastic surgeons complete specialized training and are certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Cody Koch and I are also certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology in the specialty of Head and Neck Surgery.

Why is this important? The face, nose, and ears are complicated, delicate structures with a complex anatomy that board-certified facial plastic surgeons understand in a way that exceeds that of general plastic surgeons. We’ve spent additional years focusing on aesthetic and reconstructive surgical procedures for the face, and that experience enables us to address facial rejuvenation in a more comprehensive way.

This blog will give us the opportunity to discuss nonsurgical and surgical procedures — such as injectable treatments, rhinoplasty, and facelifts — in more detail. One of the exciting things about being a facial plastic surgeon is that it’s such a dynamic specialty. Advances in techniques and treatments occur regularly and we want to give our patients the most up-to-date information available.

We’ll also be able to answer some questions that many patients have when they arrive for a consultation. Some of those questions include:

• Will a facelift help my forehead look less wrinkled?
• Can I change the shape of my nose and improve my breathing with rhinoplasty?
• Do I need eyelid surgery if I have dark circles under my eyes?
• What is a “liquid facelift?”

Well-informed patients are confident about the choices they make and are typically happy with their results because they know what to expect. This blog will help us provide that information.

Dr. Cody Koch and I look forward to an ongoing conversation about all topics related to facial plastic surgery and nonsurgical procedures. We encourage you to check back here every month for new blog posts.