The Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Facial Plastic Surgeon

When it comes to enhancing your appearance, choosing the right facial plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. A successful procedure can help you feel more confident and refreshed, while a poor choice can lead to disappointing results, unnecessary risks, and regret. With so many options available, how do you know which surgeon is right for you?

To help guide your decision, we’ve outlined the top five mistakes people make when choosing a facial plastic/cosmetic surgeon—and how you can avoid them.

Mistake #1: Focusing Only on Price

It’s tempting to shop around for the “best deal,” especially when it comes to cosmetic procedures. But when it comes to your face, choosing a surgeon based on the lowest price can be a costly mistake.

While affordability matters, unusually low fees can be a red flag. Some providers cut costs by skipping board certification, using outdated techniques, or operating in non-accredited facilities. These shortcuts put your safety and results at risk.

What to do instead:
Look for value, not just price. Consider the surgeon’s training, experience, safety standards, and reputation. Remember, revision procedures to correct poor results often cost much more than doing it right the first time.

Mistake #2: Not Checking Board Certification and Training

Not all “cosmetic surgeons” are created equal. In fact, many physicians from other specialties can legally perform aesthetic procedures without advanced training in facial surgery.

What to do instead:
Always verify your surgeon’s board certifications and background. Make sure they specialize in facial cosmetic procedures, not just general plastic surgery. Different specialties offer facial cosmetic surgery, including Plastic Surgeons, Facial Plastic Surgeons and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Board certification is one aspect but even more important is checking that the surgeon has fellowship training in that particular field of practice.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Before-and-After Photos

A surgeon’s portfolio speaks volumes about their skill, style, and consistency. Yet many patients overlook this step and simply trust the doctor’s credentials or promises.

Before-and-after photos give you a realistic idea of what to expect. You’ll be able to see whether the surgeon creates natural, balanced results—or if their patients look “overdone.”

What to do instead:
Review a variety of before-and-after photos from the surgeon’s actual patients. Look for cases similar to yours—whether it’s rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, or a facelift—and evaluate if the results look natural. Dr. Manolakakis and his team proudly showcase results that highlight their commitment to natural-looking enhancements.

Mistake #4: Skipping the Consultation Process

Some patients rush into surgery without taking the time to meet the surgeon, ask questions, and build trust. This often leads to miscommunication and unrealistic expectations.

A consultation isn’t just about scheduling a procedure—it’s your chance to get to know your surgeon and team. You should feel comfortable, heard, and supported. If you feel rushed, dismissed, or pressured, it’s a sign to keep looking.

What to do instead:
Schedule at least one in-person consultation before making your decision. Prepare a list of questions about the procedure, recovery, risks, and outcomes. Pay attention to how the surgeon explains things—do they listen carefully and answer thoroughly? At his Shrewsbury and Manhattan offices, Dr. Manolakakis is known for taking the time to ensure every patient feels informed, comfortable, and confident in their choices.

Mistake #5: Forgetting About the “After”

Patients often focus so much on the surgery itself that they forget to ask about what happens afterward. Recovery, follow-up care, and long-term results are just as important as the procedure.

A responsible facial plastic/cosmetic surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions, schedule follow-up appointments, and be available if you have concerns during recovery. Without proper support, even a technically successful surgery can lead to complications or less-than-ideal healing.

What to do instead:
Ask about the entire journey—from consultation to recovery. Make sure your surgeon and their staff provide ongoing support, realistic expectations, and clear instructions for aftercare. Dr. Manolakakis and his team are dedicated to providing long-term care that supports healing and ensures your best results.

Choosing the Right Surgeon: What Really Matters

At the end of the day, choosing a facial plastic surgeon should never be rushed. This is about your health, your safety, and your confidence. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Verify board certification and training.
Review before-and-after photos of real patients.
Take the time for a thorough consultation.
Evaluate the surgeon’s communication style and bedside manner.
Ask about aftercare and long-term results.

When you make an informed choice, you set yourself up for beautiful, natural-looking results that enhance—not change—who you are.

The Value of Fellowship Training in Facial Cosmetic Surgery

Fellowship training in facial cosmetic surgery is a crucial step for surgeons who want to refine their expertise beyond the scope of general residency. This highly specialized training provides in-depth experience with advanced techniques, innovative technology, and complex cases that demand both precision and artistry. Under the mentorship of established experts, fellows gain the confidence to deliver safe, natural-looking results tailored to each patient. For patients, choosing a surgeon with fellowship training ensures care from someone who has dedicated additional years to mastering the intricacies of facial anatomy and aesthetics — setting the standard for excellence in outcomes. With offices in Shrewsbury, NJ and Manhattan, Dr. Manolakakis has dedicated his career to facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, earning a reputation for excellence in both safety and artistry.

Begin Your Journey with Dr. Manolakakis

Our expert team is here to help guide you on your journey to natural-looking, confidence-boosting results. Book a consultation today and let’s work together to bring out the best version of you.

Whether you’re just beginning your aesthetic journey or looking to maintain long-term results, it’s important to partner with experts you can trust. At SculptMD, our medical spa offers non-surgical treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty with minimal downtime. For those considering more advanced cosmetic enhancements, Advanced Facial Surgery provides personalized surgical solutions with the highest standard of care. Together, we’re here to help you look and feel your absolute best, inside and out.