Cosmetic surgery has been on the rise for years, with 2.6 million cosmetic procedures conducted in 2019 alone. And despite the Covid-19 pandemic, there were still over 2.3 million cosmetic procedures conducted in the US in 2020. Cosmetic surgery has continued to rise in popularity as these procedures become more affordable and technologically advanced. With the influx of cosmetic procedures in the US,  more people than ever are seeking qualified cosmetic surgeons in Chandler. 

People seek cosmetic surgeons in Chandler for a variety of reasons. Some individuals want to increase their confidence by improving features on their body they are not pleased with. Others may seek to retain a youthful appearance or restore their body image after childbirth. There are many cosmetic procedures available; some options require invasive surgical procedures while others can be completed through non-invasive options like Botox injections. No matter what your reason is for wanting cosmetic surgery, choosing the right cosmetic surgeon in Chandler is an important task that should be taken seriously. 

Dr. Rimma Finkel is a double board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Chandler who has over 10 years of experience performing cosmetic procedures. 

What is a cosmetic surgeon?

A cosmetic surgeon is a physician that performs procedures designed to improve a patient’s appearance. Define. List examples of cosmetic surgery. 

What procedures can a cosmetic surgeon do?

Because cosmetic surgeons focus on improving a patient’s aesthetic appearance, they can perform a variety of procedures on all areas of the head, neck, and body. These aesthetic surgeries can include…

Cosmetic surgeons can also conduct injectable procedures to improve the appearance of a patient’s facial features. The most common form of injectable is Botox, which temporarily freezes muscle activity in the face to prevent wrinkles from forming. Other injectables include Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane. These fillers smooth and soften wrinkles while providing healthy volume and fullness to the face. A cosmetic surgeon will work with you to decide which filler best fits your specific needs. 

What is the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon?

You are not alone if you’ve always thought that cosmetic surgeons and plastic surgeons were the same! Cosmetic surgeons and plastic surgeons are closely related in their specialties, but they are not quite the same. Because of the differences between the two types of surgeons, these terms should not be used interchangeably. 

Although cosmetic surgeons and plastic surgeons both aim to improve a patient’s body, they have different goals and training related to their specific practice.  

Cosmetic surgeons

Cosmetic surgeons focus on enhancing a patient’s appearance through procedures, techniques, and principles of cosmetic surgery. There are 3 main goals associated with cosmetic surgery: 

Because they have different goals than plastic surgeons, cosmetic surgeons undergo different training procedures. Becoming a board-certified cosmetic surgeon requires specialization above and beyond what it takes to become a board-certified plastic surgeon. This is because surgeons will receive training in all cosmetic surgery procedures of the face, breast, and body, plus non-surgical cosmetic treatments. Cosmetic surgeons must complete a 1-year American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery certified fellowship training exclusively in cosmetic surgery. This is completed after the required 3-5 year residency program in a related discipline. Surgeons must also perform a minimum of 300 individual cosmetic surgery procedures as part of their training. 

Plastic surgeons

Unlike cosmetic surgeons who focus primarily on aesthetic procedures, plastic surgeons focus on repairing body defects to reconstruct a normal function and appearance. Plastic surgeons repair and reconstruct facial and body defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns, and disease. 

Plastic surgeons complete training through a post-graduate residency program. In order to become board certified in plastic surgery, physicians are required to complete one of two routes of training:

  1. An integrated residency training that combines 3 years of general surgery and 3 years of plastic surgery, OR
  2. An independent, 5-year residency program in general surgery followed by the 3-year plastic surgery residency program

These residency programs may include cosmetic surgery as a portion of the physician’s training. However, residency programs typically do not include training on every cosmetic procedure. 

How to find the best cosmetic surgeon in Chandler

Choosing a cosmetic surgeon in Chandler requires careful thought, consideration, and research. And with so many cosmetic surgeons out there, how will you know where to begin? First, you should start your search on the American Society of Plastic Surgery website to find a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. A board-certified surgeon is a physician who is qualified to perform cosmetic surgery.

Additionally, you should seek out recommendations from professionals in the medical field. Surgical technicians and operating room nurses are an excellent source for information about a surgeon’s skill in the operating room. You can also take recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers who have had cosmetic procedures. Although they may not be as knowledgeable about surgeons as medical professionals are, family members and friends can still tell you about their experiences and who they would recommend. Always conduct additional research on recommendations to make sure the surgeon is qualified and has a good reputation. 

After you have done your preliminary research, choose at least three board-certified surgeons to have an initial consultation with. The initial consultation is completely about you. Make sure to write down all the questions and concerns you may have and bring them to your consultation. Also, don’t be afraid to bring a pen with you to write down details during the consultation so you do not forget any important information. Once you have finished these consultations, it’s time to make your decision. The most important thing is to trust your gut! Choose the cosmetic surgeon that you trust and who listens to your needs.

What to consider before having cosmetic surgery

Now that you know more about what a cosmetic surgeon does, there are a few things you should consider if you are thinking about having cosmetic surgery. 

Have realistic expectations

Cosmetic surgery can be a life-changing experience for some. But just because cosmetic surgery may enhance your appearance and boost your confidence, it won’t get you a better relationship, a higher-paying job, or a more satisfying life. However, if your goal is to correct a hooked nose, tighten a loose chin or lift post-nursing breasts, you will likely be satisfied with the results of cosmetic surgery, provided you do your homework first. Always remember to have realistic expectations of the outcomes and do thorough research before committing to a cosmetic surgeon. 

Check surgeons’ qualifications

A growing number of physicians and plastic surgeons are performing cosmetic procedures. Always select a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. When possible, avoid getting a procedure from a surgeon who is not certified. Keep in mind that cosmetic surgeons must complete 50 hours of continuing medical education each year to ensure they are qualified. They also take regular performance examinations, as well as record patient outcomes, to maintain their certification.

Evaluate the facility

In addition to checking your surgeon’s credentials, make sure the procedure is performed in an accredited facility, such as a hospital or medical center. Avoid strip malls, office buildings, or a private home (such as at a cosmetic-surgery house party) as these facilities are not equipped to adequately address potential complications. Board-certified surgeons should always perform procedures in a legitimate medical facility. 

Save for the expense

Insurance does not cover elective cosmetic surgery. Unless you purchase a separate policy, health insurance typically does not cover complications that may arise from cosmetic procedures either. But this is not an area where you can cut corners or search for bargain-basement prices—even if it requires waiting another year or two to save the money you need for surgery. There are several cosmetic surgeons in Chandler who have financing options to make procedures more affordable. 

Don’t minimize risk 

Although cosmetic surgery is an elective procedure, it is not without risks. Whether your procedure requires general anesthesia (a combination of drugs and gases that put you to sleep) or local sedation, that step comes with its own risks which you should discuss with your surgeon beforehand. Surgical complications are also possible and include infection, wound separation, and the failure to achieve your desired result.

Be patient with your recovery

It’s important to take time to heal properly. Be patient with your results and don’t expect to look model-ready after surgery. Remember that it takes time for swelling and bruising to go away, and it can take weeks or months for the skin to adapt to a new shape. You should also make accommodations for time away from work and family responsibilities, if necessary. Always talk with your surgeon about post-procedure expectations.

Consider nonsurgical options

Although noninvasive procedures also carry some risks, you may want to consider a temporary fix before opting for a permanent solution. However, temporary options like Botox and other fillers can be more expensive in the long run. Consider your goals and talk with your doctor about alternative options. 

Think ahead

Our bodies are constantly changing, so it’s reasonable to assume that you may want additional procedures 5 or 10 years down the road. With that said, don’t get caught in a cycle of trying to look “perfect.” Keep your goals in mind and don’t go overboard correcting your body. 

Cosmetic Surgery in Chandler AZ

While this information is a great place to start, you’ll get the most out of a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Chandler. If you want more information about cosmetic surgery and the options available to you, visit Dr. Rimma Finkel! She is happy to help you schedule your one-on-one consultation so you can learn more about cosmetic surgery. You can also read more about Dr. Finkel here!

A Female Cosmetic Surgeon In Chandler You Can Trust

As one of the only female physicians in the Chandler area, Dr. Rimma Finkel offers a unique view to her patients. Patients can relax and make important decisions in our calm office environment.  Most importantly, patient safety and comfort is always her first priority. So come in for a consultation. Don’t hold yourself back from your full potential any longer.

Dr. Finkel’s Medical Background

Dr. Rimma Finkel, MD, is a cosmetic surgeon who serves the entire Phoenix metro area. She has offices in Chandler, Gilbert, and Phoenix and often travels to the Banner Health clinic in Glendale. After graduating from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in 2001, she trained in General Surgery at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center until 2006. She then trained in Plastic Surgery at the University of Louisville. Upon completing these programs in 2008, Dr. Finkel started her own private practice, Dr. Rimma Finkel, MD PLLC. Dr. Finkel has been recognized as a top cosmetic surgeon in Chandler, AZ.

Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon Chandler

Dr. Finkel is double board-certified in Chandler cosmetic surgery. She also has multiple professional memberships in addition to her certifications. She is a member of several professional organizations including:

The American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

American Association of Plastic Surgeons

The American Board of Plastic Surgery

American Society of Plastic Surgeons

If you are considering an aesthetic procedure and want a cosmetic surgeon in Chandler you can trust, contact Dr. Rimma Finkel!