For many people seeking to improve their appearance, undergoing some sort of plastic surgery is the route they choose. Residents of Pennsylvania considering this option might want to do their homework before they decide to do it. Throughout the country doctors who have not been board certified in plastic surgery are performing these procedures. The results of the surgical procedures are not always what the patient is hoping for.

It may come as a surprise to some to know that the doctors do this are not breaking any laws or rules. In the United States, a licensed doctor can practice in any area he or she wants to. Accordingly, it is possible for doctor who is board certified in gynecology to perform a breast augmentation

The reason some doctors are branching into this area is simple-money. Cosmetic procedures are often lucrative. In addition, interaction with insurance companies is cutout since most procedures are paid for by the patients out of pocket.

Doctors who are board certified in plastic surgery are reporting a growing number of patients seeking revisionary surgery to correct botched procedures. One doctor claims she now has patients like this weekly compared to a couple years ago when no one came to her with the complaint.

Specialty certification can be attained by doctors on 24 different specialties which have been approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Those who seek certification in a specialty may do so by passing written and oral exams. In addition, the doctor must complete a three year residency in the special area.

While obviously not all surgeries performed by doctors not specializing in cosmetic surgery end with a bad result, the background of one's doctor is nonetheless something that those considering plastic surgery should be aware of.

Source: New York Times, "Ear Doctors Performing Face-Lifts? It Happens," Kate Murphy, Jan. 30, 2012