WHY?

(a statement to the press)
I felt it was important to bring to the public’s attention the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon. These differences are tremendous, and are often misunderstood by the public. Plastic Surgery is one of 24 recognized subspecialties of the American Board of Medical Specialties whereas cosmetic surgery is not. The American Board of Medical Specialties was created for the safety and protection of patients and monitors the quality of a surgeon’s medical education. It’s resolved to initiate the qualifying requirements for applicants requesting certification, regulate comprehensive examinations, and present certification to those who meet the established requirements. Unfortunately, in most states, including New York, a licensed physician may perform cosmetic procedures without being board-certified or eligible in plastic surgery. It is my opinion that this should not be the case, and certainly no public figure should ever endorse any physician as an expert that does not meet these basic requirements.

http://www.abms.org/
http://www.abms.org/Downloads/Monthly_Articles/Board_Certified.pdf