COSMETIC SURGERY

In reference to Paddy Calistro’s Looks column “The Second Time Around� (Aug. 24): One reason for the rise in cosmetic surgery revisions is the general public’s lack of awareness that “cosmetic surgeons� each have varying medical and surgical backgrounds. Ophthalmologists, ear, nose and throat specialists, dermatologists, general surgeons and plastic and reconstructive surgeons all do cosmetic surgery with varying degrees of expertise. Asking if the doctor is board-certified is not enough. The only board that requires significant training and expertise in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery is the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.

THEODORE R. CORWIN, MD

Westlake Village