Choosing Experience and Credentials: The Value of a Board-Certified Surgeon

If you or someone you love is considering surgery, it’s natural to want complete confidence in your care. One of the most important factors in that decision is your surgeon’s training and credentials.

As Dr. Denton Watumull, a triple-board certified plastic surgeon with Regional Plastic Surgery Center, shares: “You want a surgeon that’s board certified. This distinction helps ensure that your surgeon has met rigorous standards for education, experience, and patient safety.” 

Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon also gives you greater peace of mind as you move forward.

What Does “Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon” Mean?

“It means they’ve completed extensive, specialized training and have been evaluated against the highest standards in their field,” Dr. Watumull informs.

This includes years of surgical residency focused specifically on plastic surgery, followed by rigorous examinations to demonstrate both knowledge and skill.

For patients, this credential offers reassurance that your surgeon has the experience and expertise needed to perform procedures safely and effectively.

Plastic Surgeon vs. Cosmetic Surgeon

Many patients are surprised to learn that not all “cosmetic surgeons” have the same training. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are important differences that can impact both safety and results. Their core differences include:

• Plastic surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and complete extensive training in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
• Cosmetic surgeons may come from a variety of medical backgrounds and often focus primarily on aesthetic treatments, with certifications that are not always recognized by the ABMS.

Additionally, plastic surgeons are uniquely trained to:

• Reconstruct and restore function (e.g., breast reconstruction, trauma repair)
• Perform cosmetic procedures with a deep understanding of anatomy and healing

Safety Standards and Accredited Surgical Facilities

Where your procedure is performed matters just as much as who performs it. “Accredited surgical facilities are also held to high standards for safety, cleanliness, and patient care,” Dr. Watumull assures.

These centers are regularly evaluated to ensure they follow best practices for infection control, emergency preparedness, and surgical protocols—so you can feel confident you’re in a safe, well-regulated environment.

At Regional Plastic Surgery Center, these standards are a core part of how we care for every patient.

Questions to Ask During Your Plastic Surgery Consultation

Your consultation is designed to help you learn about your procedure and give you peace of mind before surgery. Here are some questions you can ask during your plastic surgery consultation.

•  What is your surgeon’s experience?
•  What accreditation does the surgery center maintain?
•  What type of anesthesia? Who will administer it?
•  What are the emergency protocols?
•  What are the risks?
•  What’s the timeline for recovery?
•  What are your pain management options?

You’ll also have the opportunity to speak with the financial office and go over any questions you have regarding that part of your surgery.

Why Choose Regional Plastic Surgery Center for Plastic Surgery in Texas

With so many options available, choosing the right practice can feel overwhelming. At Regional Plastic Surgery Center, our focus is simple: provide expert care in an environment where patients feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.

• Our board-certified surgeons bring advanced training in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures
• We’re recognized for excellence, with features in publications like D Magazine and Living Magazine
• We offer a full range of personalized procedures designed around your goals—not a one-size-fits-all approach

Confidence Begins with the Right Surgeon in Texas

“If you’re considering plastic surgery, you deserve to feel fully informed and confident in your decision, and choosing a board-certified surgeon is an important first step,” Dr. Watumull encourages. But just as important is finding a surgical team that takes the time to understand your goals and guide you with care.

If you have questions or want to explore your options, our team is here to help—whenever you’re ready. Contact us today to speak with Dr. Watumull or another one of our board-certified surgeons.