The plastic surgery industry has been experiencing a period of growth since the pandemic, which has also brought about a boom of inexperienced providers that are offering patients procedures without the necessary training or any certification.
In the United States, any doctor with a medical license can perform plastic surgery, even without formal training specific to the field.
There are many dangers when it comes to hiring a plastic surgeon who is unqualified. They may not be able to produce results that are natural-looking, and they may not have enough experience to know how to deal with something unexpected that could come up during surgery. In the worst cases, the surgery could even result in an injury or death.
The global cosmetic surgery market size was valued at $67.3 billion in 2021, and it is projected to grow to $201 billion by 2031. This rapid growth and demand for cosmetic procedures is likely to bring about more unqualified practitioners. Therefore, it is extremely important to visit an ethical clinic or physician that is qualified with the appropriate certifications.
One of the highly respectable markers of credibility for plastic surgery offices is the Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation. This is a symbol of trust and transparency for consumers. Patients prioritize safety and ethical practices when it comes to plastic surgery, and the BBB accreditation is another way to ensure the practice is up to par with appropriate standards.
To be approved for the BBB accreditation,the clinic undergoes a rigorous evaluation of its business ethics, like communication quality, customer service standards, and adherence to privacy policies. According to the Better Business Bureau, 88 percent of consumers said they were more likely to purchase from a business if it has an A rating. Trust and reputation help set apart credible practices in the aesthetic industry from those that may not meet expectations.
One of the plastic surgery clinics that demonstrates a level of excellence high enough to earn the BBB accreditation is Fulcrum Aesthetics & Surgery, led by esteemed plastic surgeon Dr. David Hill. Achieving the certification means that Fulcrum Aesthetics is committed to extraordinary care and ethical standards.
“Accreditation in the BBB is by invitation only,” said Steve J. Bernas, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “Only businesses that meet our rigorous standards and pass a thorough review process are approved by our Board of Directors.” This means Fulcrum Aesthetics has been thoroughly vetted to ensure it consistently adheres to the BBB Code of Business Practices, emphasizing trust, responsiveness, and safeguarding client privacy.
Dr. Hill expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, “This recognition reinforces our dedication to delivering exceptional care and upholding the highest ethical standards and customer satisfaction.” Founded in 2023 by Dr. Hill and Nurse Practitioner Brittony Croasdell, Fulcrum Aesthetics offers a full range of surgical and non-surgical treatments. The team prides itself on their ability to blend artistry with medical precision.
The team at Fulcrum is focused on merging traditional plastic surgery with modern, non-invasive treatments. The clinic offers a wide range of services — from facials and microneedling to advanced surgical procedures — all under one roof. “There are very few aesthetic practices that do everything from brow waxing or microneedling all the way up to and including plastic surgery,” says Dr. Hill. This approach lets the patients address multiple cosmetic concerns in one place, instead of having to visit multiple providers for different treatments.
Dr. Hill’s expertise goes beyond plastic surgery. He developed a patented chest tube clamp that is designed to reduce harm during trauma surgery. “If there’s a simpler, safer way to do something, inventing something new might be the way forward,” he said.
Dr. Hill’s careful approach is a main component of his practice. He understands the importance of being honest with patients in order to manage their expectations, as transparency is ultimately key. “I always discuss goals with my patients and assess if those expectations are realistic,” he explains.
Dr. Hill is also clear about declining surgeries for patients with unrealistic expectations or those suffering from body dysmorphia. According to the National Library of Medicine, cases of body dysmorphia have risen alongside the popularity of cosmetic procedures. Ethically sound surgeons like Dr. Hill know that it is important to spot a patient who may be experiencing body dysmorphia, so they can protect the patient and the practice.
Dr. Hill’s practice has also seen a rise in popularity of combination treatments. “We’re seeing a lot more patients opting for combinations of surgical and non-surgical treatments,” he explained. For example, it’s becoming more common for patients to undergo laser treatments or fat grafting at the same time as facelifts or other surgeries. This helps lessen the downtime and overall recovery process.
Dr. Hill has also observed a growing interest from male patients. “We have probably 15 percent men walking through the door,” he notes. In fact, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of men seeking cosmetic procedures has increased by 29 percent since 2000.
As the plastic surgery industry continues to see this massive growth, earning certifications such as the BBB accreditation will only become more important. For clinics like Fulcrum Aesthetics & Surgery, achieving this prestigious recognition is more than a business milestone. It is a reflection of their dedication to patient trust, ethical practices, and the highest standard of care in their welcoming and luxurious environment.
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