Why Choose a Facial Plastic Surgeon?

By Kimberley Rutherford, M.D.

As facial plastic surgery becomes more popular, the number of places offering these services is multiplying.  With numerous different types of physicians and aesthetic personnel offering aesthetic treatments, it is important for you to make an informed decision when considering an elective procedure.

I am often faced with the questions, “Why should I choose a facial plastic surgeon?” and “How does otolaryngology relate to facial plastic surgery?”  Actually, these are great questions.  A facial plastic surgeon is someone who has spent their entire career after medical school studying the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the face and neck.  After graduating from medical school, facial plastic surgeons spend 5 years in an otolaryngology and head and neck surgery (ENT) residency program.  This training involves the intensive study of aesthetic and reconstructive facial plastic surgery in addition to head and neck surgical oncology, ear surgery, sinus disease, and pediatric ENT, to name a few.  Following residency, facial plastic surgeons complete one year of additional training dedicated to facial plastic surgery in a fellowship accredited by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.  We have spent years studying, analyzing and treating the structure of the face and neck, which makes facial plastic surgery a natural transition from otolaryngology. 

Many other specialties offering treatments in aesthetic enhancements have come from a base of general surgery or general medicine, and have a relatively dilute experience when it comes to the face.  Facial plastic surgeons have spent time dedicated to perfecting facial plastic surgery techniques.  We are able to analyze the balance of facial structures and have operated on this area for our entire careers. 

At Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons of Western New England, we specialize in comprehensive nonsurgical and surgical management of the aging face, including Botox®, dermal fillers, eyelid surgery, eyebrow lift, and face and neck lift surgery.  We also treat many benign and malignant skin lesions ranging from earlobe repair to skin cancer reconstruction. Additionally, we offer correction of the protruding ear and hair restoration.  Our background in otolaryngology and specialization in facial plastic surgery allows us to treat both functional and aesthetic aspects of the nose.

It is important for you to feel comfortable and confident in the person that you choose to treat you.  By choosing a facial plastic surgeon, you can be sure that you are receiving the most highly trained professional to help you put your best face forward.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Kimberley Rutherford at our Springfield or Northampton office, please contact Cassie St. Aubin at (413) 233-2034.