The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the largest plastic surgery specialty organization in the world, established in 1931 and headquartered in Illinois. Plastic surgery can be reconstructive to repair trauma from accidents, birth defects, or cosmetic to alter appearance, with cosmetic procedures becoming more common. Medical tourism offers lower rates abroad but safety risks include surgeon qualifications, facility equipment, and complications handling. Patients should consider a surgeon's qualifications, facility safety, and long-term satisfaction before any plastic surgery.

1. Plastic Surgery Carley Brattland Information from www.plasticsurgery.org

2. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons Established in 1931 Largest plastic surgery specialty organization in the world Full of board certified professionals who specialize in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery Publishes numerous informational brochures to help patients/clients Headquartered in Arlington Heights, Illinois Information from www.plasticsurgery.org

3. Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Many people go through reconstructive plastic surgery after any type of trauma Some people chose reconstructive plastic surgery for birth defect. Some people need this due to car accidents, fights, or even accidental trauma, others need this after something such as a broken nose to correct their breathing Information from www.plasticsurgery.org

4. Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Many choose cosmetic plastic surgery to alter their looks and in turn feel better about themselves The number of people receiving plastic surgery has soared over the years Plastic surgery has become “ routine” to people who go under the knife often or go for Botox injections regularly Information from www.plasticsurgery.org

5. Medical Tourism Some plastic surgeons offer low exclusive rates for “medical tourism”, some even in exotic locations but this may not be safe Patients need to consider these three things before traveling abroad for plastic surgery Is the physician qualified? Is the medical facility and equipment safe? How will my post-operative care and any complications be handled? Are travel and vacation activities compatible with surgery? Information from www.plasticsurgery.org

6. Things to Consider Before Going Under the Knife Is plastic surgery the best option to fix whatever you are correcting? Is this the best possible physician, location, equpiment? Will your post operative care be done where the operation is or externally? How will check-ups be handled? Will you be able to live with your plastic surgery of choice in 10 years? 20? 30? Information from www.plasticsurgery.org