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Prime Buyers Guide Plastic Surgeons - Cosmetic Surgeons

How To Find the Best Cosmetic Surgeons in Alameda County

Modern medicine has made great strides in the area of cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery. Procedures that used to be invasive and dangerous are now treated as out-patient procedures. Whether you are looking for a face lift, breast augmentation, breast reduction, reconstructive surgery, rhinoplasty, liposuction, permanent make-up, age spot removal, botox injections or any other type of cosmetic surgery in Alameda County, the choices have never been safer. In the following articles, The Prime Buyer's Report has information to help you choose the best cosmetic surgeons for you in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont.

Updated September 12, 2009

Top 10 Plastic Surgeons - Cosmetic Surgeons in Alameda County

Aesthetic Facial Plastic Surgery
(510) 451-1116
3324 Webster St
Oakland, CA 94609

Areas Served: Oakland CA, Hayward, Dublin CA, Fremont, San Leandro, Berkeley, Livermore

East Bay Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center
(510) 654-9222
3318 Elm St # 1
Oakland, CA 94609

Areas Served: Berkeley, Oakland CA, Dublin CA, Hayward, Fremont, Newark CA, Pleasanton CA, Emeryville

Rodan Katie MD
(510) 763-2662
3300 Webster St # 1106
Oakland, CA 94609

Areas Served: Hayward, Oakland CA, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Emeryville, Dublin CA, Union City CA

Joseph N. Togba Jr. MD
(510) 763-2525
3300 Webster St Suite 1109
Oakland, CA 94609

Areas Served: Oakland CA, Berkeley, Fremont, Newark CA, Livermore, Dublin CA, Hayward, San Lorenzo

Brozowski, Christine MD, Cosmetic Dermatology
(510) 549-3333
2999 Regent Street
Berkeley, CA 94705

Areas Served: Berkeley, Hayward, Oakland CA, Dublin CA, Fremont, Emeryville, Newark CA, Piedmont

Lau Glen K MD
(510) 451-6950
80 Grand Ave # 810
Oakland, CA 94612

Areas Served: Alameda, Oakland CA, Hayward, Fremont, Dublin CA, Pleasanton CA, San Leandro, Livermore

Plastic Surgery Assocs
(510) 428-3024
747 52nd St
Oakland, CA 94609

Areas Served: Alameda, Berkeley, Oakland CA, Dublin CA, Fremont, Hayward, Newark CA, Livermore

A Woman's Center for Plastic & Laser Surgery
(415) 392-3333
490 Post St # 430
San Francisco, CA 94102

Areas Served: Oakland CA, Newark CA, Berkeley, Hayward, Emeryville, Dublin CA, Pleasanton CA

Updated November 18, 2008

How To Find the Best Cosmetic Surgeons in Alameda County 

There are two basic types of plastic surgery: Reconstructive surgery, which corrects defects on the body or face such as cleft palates or other natural deformities, or bodily damage from accidents or disease, and cosmetic surgery, sometimes known as aesthetic surgery, which deals with some part of the body a person wants changed, such as a tummy tuck, face lift, nose reduction or reshaping (rhinoplasty), eye lift, laser skin resurfacing, botox injections, breast enhancement or reduction surgery or fat removal (liposuction).

In Alameda County there are dozens of medical doctors who practice plastic surgery. In recent years the amount of elective plastic surgeries performed has risen steeply as procedures became more mainstream and any stigmas attached to plastic surgery went by the wayside, partly because of the media airing shows such as Extreme Makeover. Shows like that often make the surgeries look very easy. But surgery is surgery and always carries risks.

You may have considered having work done yourself. If so, choosing the right Alameda County plastic surgeon may be the most important decision you can make. It may interest you to know that any MD can practice plastic surgery without any other special training or certification. Any physician with a license to practice medicine and a medical degree can legally perform plastic surgery.

There are, however, plastic surgery accreditations awarded by certain self-regulated medical organizations such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Each has different criteria and qualifications. (See a list of these in our article, "Consumer Resources for Cosmetic Surgery in Alameda County.) But an accreditation certificate hanging on the wall is not indicative of surgical prowess. Certainly plastic surgery accreditation is a great place to start, but cosmetic surgery doctors in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont should also give you access to examples of surgeries he has performed for others. Referrals from past patients who are happy with their surgery results should be offered and available. A good working hospital affiliation is also important. Surgeons allowed access to hospital facilities are typically accredited and overseen on a regular basis.

There Are Lots of Plastic to Choose From in Alameda County
Besides experience and skill, a good match of personality and style are important when choosing a plastic surgeon. Find one that meshes well with your personality and that you trust.

The Prime Buyer's Report lists these plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgery centers in Alameda County: Aesthetic Facial Plastic Surgery, East Bay Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center, Rodan Katie MD, Joseph N. Togba Jr. MD, Brozowski, Christine MD, Cosmetic Dermatology, Lau Glen K MD, Plastic Surgery Assocs, A Woman's Center for Plastic & Laser Surgery. Other cosmetic surgeons that might still serve Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont include: .

Look for Cosmetic Surgeons That are Accredited
When looking for a high-quality plastic surgeon in Alameda County, look for board certifications and/or kudos from consumer watchdog organizations. The Prime Buyer's Report has compiled a listing of reputable publications, associations, and resources for plastic surgeons. To view these links, see the article, "Key Consumer Resources for Cosmetic Surgeons in Alameda County."

Updated September 12, 2009
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Choosing The Best Plastic Surgeons in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont 

There are many factors to consider before not only hiring a plastic surgeon, but before deciding to have the surgery at all. Before beginning the process of choosing a cosmetic surgeon in Alameda County or anywhere else, it's best to write down, in as much detail as possible, exactly what you're hoping to accomplish by having the plastic surgery done.

When it comes to plastic surgery, this task can be daunting; the reasons for your plastic surgery may have emotional roots that extend a lifetime. But being clear, with yourself and your potential plastic surgeon, will help move the process along. Having everything clearly spelled out also helps you to compare apples to apples, as each plastic surgeon in Alameda County will be able, in his or her own way, to respond to the same things. When meeting with potential cosmetic surgeons in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont, we've provide a list of questions to use as a guideline.


• What, if any, board certifications do you have?

• What was your medical specialty before you entered plastic surgery?

• Have you ever been disciplined by a board or the state?

• On average, how many revisions do you perform on your own work?

• What is your success rate with this procedure?

• Would you be willing to perform this procedure on a family member?

• Is there any reason I would not be a good candidate for this surgery?

• Do you believe my expectations are realistic?

• What are my options regarding anesthesia?

• What complications are possible due to the surgery?

• Are there newer techniques available to accomplish the same thing?

• How much pain should I expect?

• How much time should I plan to allow for healing?

• When should I expect to look "normal" again?

• Have you performed this procedure before?

• How long have you been performing this procedure?

• Can I see some before and after photos of patients who have had this procedure done by you?

• May I speak to some of your patients who have actually had this procedure done by you?

• Will the procedure be done in your office, or an outpatient center or a hospital?

• Do you have hospital privileges if I choose to have the procedure done in a hospital?

• Is the medical facility certified and licensed?

• Who will perform the actual surgery and outpatient care?

• Does your office offer financing?

• What tips do you have for easing pain and discomfort?

• What will you do if I have a complication?

• If I'm not happy with the results, what if your policy for revisions? Would you put that in writing?

• What is your availability?


Through this question-and-answer period, consider first impressions, technical abilities, experience levels, and overall feelings of trust of the plastic surgeons in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont. Somewhere in this combination of facets you will the best, high-quality Alameda County plastic surgeon for you

Updated September 12, 2009
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Consumer Resources About Plastic Surgeons in Alameda County 

Associations, Accreditation & Licensing

BBB Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.com)
DCA California Department of Consumer Affairs (www.dca.ca.gov)
American Medical Association (www.ama-assn.org)
American Association of Physician Specialists (http://www.aapsga.org/index.html)
American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc. (https://www.abplsurg.org/ModDefault.aspx)
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (http://surgery.org/)
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (http://www.plasticsurgery.org/)
American Board of Medical Specialties (http://www.abms.org/)
American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (http://www.cosmeticsurgery.org/)
American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (http://www.asoprs.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=1)

The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for cosmetic surgeons in Alameda County within the following zip codes. 94501, 94502, 94536, 94537, 94538, 94539, 94540, 94541, 94542, 94543, 94544, 94545, 94546, 94550, 94551, 94552, 94555, 94557, 94560, 94566, 94568, 94577, 94578, 94579, 94580, 94586, 94587, 94588, 94601, 94602, 94603, 94604, 94605, 94606, 94607, 94608, 94609, 94610, 94611, 94612, 94613, 94614, 94615, 94617, 94618, 94619, 94620, 94621, 94623, 94624, 94661, 94662, 94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94706, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94710 and 94712.

The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for plastic surgeons in Alameda County within the following cities. Alameda, Albany, Ashland, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Dublin, Emeryville, Fremont, Hayward, Komandorski Village, Livermore, Mount Eden, Newark, Oakland, Piedmont, Pleasanton, Russell City, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Sunol and Union City
Updated September 12, 2009
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Tips for Dealing With Plastic Surgeons in Hayward, Oakland, Dublin and Fremont 

Take Time Choosing Your Plastic Surgeon.
Take your time hiring a Plastic Surgeon. It's an important decision that can easily affect the rest of your life and shouldn't be rushed. Each plastic surgeon will come to the table with different skill sets, experiences and personality. If can plan early enough to interview several-even if you like the first one you meet-your odds of a successful surgery will improve.

Write it Down.
We mentioned this in another article, but it's important. Think about what you have in mind for your plastic surgery—not just what surgery you want, but what you hope it will accomplish. Jot down all your notes about any detail that seem important. Sit down and write this out as detailed as possible; write down everything that comes to mind, no matter how trivial. By writing it down you'll be able to hand each potential plastic surgeon a clear, consistent summary of what you're looking for and expecting. It will also be easier for them to properly evaluate your odds of success based on your consistent description.

Get Several Separate Estimates.
When hiring an Alameda County plastic surgeon, it's not about just finding the lowest bidder. Getting several estimates helps because it will not only help you get an idea of the market value for the work you're requesting, it will give you a chance to sound out the personalities, policies and customer service of each plastic surgeon before getting involved with them.

Documentation, Documentation, Documentation.
Nothing is official until it is written and signed. So insist that your plastic surgeon provides you with a detailed document that describes the surgery, price, contingency plans in case of complications and projected timeframe for the surgery and recovery. Get it in writing. You'll both feel better.

Do Your Homework Before You Sign An Agreement With a Plastic Surgeon in Alameda County.
To narrow down your choices, do some detective work. Research the plastic surgeon's licensing, insurance and reputation. To help with this, see our article: Key Consumer Resources for plastic surgeons in Alameda County. Verify all of this information before agreeing to the surgery. As with most industries, there is an upper echelon of highly regarded cosmetic surgeons that insist on delivering the best customer care possible. Seek out a plastic surgeon that has earned high marks and accreditations from industry groups and past clients and you are much more likely to have a better outcome.

Know Your Rights.
If you have the misfortune of arriving at a disagreement or legal impasse with your plastic surgeon, you are protected by certain rights. Start with the California Department of Consumer Affairs Web site (www.dca.ca.gov).
Updated September 12, 2009
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