How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Daniel Gould Featured in HuffPost

Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Gould, MD, PhD was featured in HuffPost discussing the most important warning signs patients should watch for when choosing a plastic surgeon.

Selecting a surgeon is one of the most important decisions a patient makes when considering cosmetic surgery. In the article, Dr. Gould emphasizes that the relationship between patient and surgeon should be treated as a collaborative partnership built on trust, communication, and shared goals.

“Treat this like a partnership between you and the surgeon. Ensure there is alignment of goals and communication,” Dr. Gould explains.

The article outlines several red flags patients should be aware of when evaluating a plastic surgery practice, including credentials, surgical experience, and consultation practices.

Key Warning Signs to Watch For

1. The surgeon is not board-certified in plastic surgery
   Board certification is a critical credential that confirms a surgeon has completed specialized training and passed rigorous examinations in plastic surgery. Dr. Gould notes that some physicians may market themselves as “cosmetic surgeons” without proper plastic surgery certification.

2. The surgeon does not specialize in the procedure you want
   Experience with a specific procedure often leads to more consistent outcomes and a deeper understanding of potential complications.

3. Limited before-and-after photos
   A strong portfolio of patient results helps demonstrate a surgeon’s experience and aesthetic approach.

4. Prices that seem unusually low
   Extremely low pricing can sometimes signal shortcuts in safety protocols, surgical facilities, or postoperative care.

5. Pressure to proceed with surgery
   According to Dr. Gould, patients should never feel manipulated or rushed into making a decision.

6. Immediate surgical availability
   Highly experienced surgeons often have waiting periods due to demand and thorough pre-operative planning.

7. Aggressive upselling during consultation
   A responsible surgeon focuses on the patient’s goals rather than pushing additional procedures.

Ultimately, Dr. Gould encourages patients to take their time during the selection process and trust their instincts if something feels off.