What Does "Board Certified" Really Mean in Plastic Surgery?
When searching for a plastic surgeon in West Texas, it is common to see various credentials listed next to a doctor’s name. For patients at FacePLUS+ Plastic Surgery Institute, understanding these distinctions is the first step toward a safe and successful transformation. While many physicians may offer aesthetic treatments, not all have undergone the rigorous training required to be a specialist in the field.
At FacePLUS+, Dr. Thanapoom (Mo) Boonipat exemplifies the highest standards of medical education and specialized skill. Understanding what "board-certified" and "board-eligible" truly mean helps patients make informed decisions before undergoing life-changing procedures.
What the Term "Board Certified" Means in Practice
The term indicates that a physician has completed a specific, high-level training and evaluation process. In the United States, the gold standard for this specialty is certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), which is the only plastic surgery board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
To achieve this, a surgeon must:
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Graduate from an accredited medical school.
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Complete a minimum of six to eight years of surgical residency training.
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Pass extensive written and oral examinations that test technical knowledge, ethical standing, and surgical judgment.
Dr. Thanapoom Boonipat: Beyond the Standard
While many surgeons stop at the baseline requirements, Dr. Boonipat has pursued a level of training that sets FacePLUS+ Plastic Surgery Institute apart. As a board-eligible plastic surgeon, Dr. Boonipat has already successfully completed his integrated plastic surgery residency at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic—consistently ranked as the #1 hospital in the nation.
Furthermore, Dr. Boonipat is fellowship-trained in craniofacial and maxillofacial surgery. This additional specialization involves an extra year of intensive focus on the complex structures of the face, jaw, and skull, making him a premier choice for intricate procedures like ethnic rhinoplasty, facial bone contouring, and facial reanimation.
Plastic Surgeon vs. Cosmetic Surgeon: Know the Difference
A common source of confusion for patients is the difference between a "plastic surgeon" and a "cosmetic surgeon."
Type of Professional | Recognized Certification | Training Background | Scope of Work |
|---|---|---|---|
Plastic Surgeon (ABPS) | American Board of Plastic Surgery | 6+ years of residency in reconstructive & aesthetic surgery | Full body aesthetic & complex reconstruction |
Cosmetic Surgeon | Various (Not recognized by ABMS) | May come from unrelated fields (ER, OBGYN, etc.) | Primarily limited to elective aesthetic procedures |
By choosing a specialist like Dr. Boonipat, who is rooted in the "Patient’s Interest First" philosophy of the Mayo Clinic, you are choosing a surgeon trained to handle both the art of aesthetics and the complexity of reconstructive anatomy.
Making an Informed Decision in Lubbock
Your safety and results depend on the hands you choose. At FacePLUS+ Plastic Surgery Institute, we encourage all patients to verify credentials through the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Medical Specialties.
Dr. Boonipat and his team are dedicated to transparency and excellence. Whether you are seeking facial rejuvenation or complex reconstruction, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your goals with a surgeon who combines elite technical training with a passion for artistic harmony.