Why Choose a Private Practice Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Over a Corporate Chain Clinic?

In today’s world of aesthetic medicine, patients seeking body contouring have many options. Large corporate chains have opened up and offer laser-assisted liposuction and other procedures at numerous locations across the country. While their marketing may be enticing, there are critical differences between choosing a corporate chain cosmetic clinic and entrusting your care to a private practice board-certified plastic surgeon.

If you are considering body contouring, here’s why choosing a private practice like Aesthetic Associates Centre offers distinct advantages over corporate chains.

1. Surgeon-Led Consultations

Board-Certified Surgeon in Buffalo, NY | Trusted Surgical Results
Dr. Samuel Shatkin Jr., a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and aesthetic plastic surgery, is honored as a 2025 Buffalo Spree Top Doctor. As a private practice surgeon serving Western New York, he is dedicated to providing expert, personalized care.

At a private plastic surgery practice, your consultation is conducted directly with the board-certified surgeon who will be performing your procedure. You receive expert medical advice tailored to your needs, rather than a sales consultation by a representative with no medical training.

At large corporate chain clinics, patients often meet with patient care consultants who focus on selling procedures rather than providing an in-depth medical assessment. The lack of direct input from a surgeon during the consultation phase can lead to unrealistic expectations and suboptimal outcomes.

2. Fully Customized Treatment Plans

A board-certified plastic surgeon in private practice develops a surgical plan specifically for you based on a thorough evaluation of your anatomy, medical history, and aesthetic goals.

At large corporate chain clinics, procedures are often standardized and limited to their proprietary techniques, which may not be the best solution for every patient. A private practice surgeon has access to a full range of surgical and non-surgical options, allowing for a truly individualized approach.

3. Surgeon Qualifications and Experience

Board-certified plastic surgeons undergo extensive training, including medical school, residency, and often fellowship training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Their certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) ensures they have met rigorous standards in both education and experience.

Corporate chains often employ physicians from various backgrounds, including those without formal plastic surgery training. While some surgeons are board-certified, they may not be board-certified in plastic surgery. Not all are trained specifically in plastic surgery techniques, which can impact safety and results.

4. Accredited Surgical Facilities and Hospital Privileges

A private practice plastic surgeon typically operates in accredited surgical facilities, ensuring the highest patient safety standards. Many private practice surgeons also have hospital privileges, meaning they can perform surgery in a hospital setting if needed. This offers an added layer of security in case of complications.

Corporate chain providing procedures are performed in corporate-owned clinics, which may not have the same level of accreditation or emergency capabilities as a hospital or fully accredited surgical center.  They also may use local anesthesia, which may mean the patient will not be fully anesthetized to undergo an extensive procedure.

5. Comprehensive Post-Operative Care

Surgery is just one part of the journey—proper post-operative care is crucial to achieving optimal results and minimizing complications. Private practice surgeons provide continuity of care, meaning you will see the same physician from your initial consultation through your recovery. They are personally invested in your outcome and available to address concerns along the way.

At corporate chain clinics, patients may find themselves receiving post-operative care from different providers, and long-term follow-up may be limited.

6. Ethical and Transparent Pricing

Private practice surgeons provide transparent pricing and individualized recommendations without pressure to commit to unnecessary procedures. The corporate chain clinic model is built on high-volume patient turnover, and some patients report feeling pressured into financing packages or additional treatments. Additionally, corporate models may have hidden fees that are not disclosed upfront.

7. A Commitment to Artistic and Natural Results

Board-certified plastic surgeons approach body contouring with an artistic eye and a deep understanding of human anatomy. Their goal is not just to remove fat but to sculpt a balanced, natural-looking result that enhances your body’s proportions.

Corporate chain clinics put emphasis on laser-assisted liposuction which may not always provide the nuanced, high-quality results that a trained plastic surgeon can achieve through a more customized approach.

Making the Right Choice for Your Body

When it comes to body contouring, choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon in private practice ensures that you receive expert care, a tailored approach, and a commitment to safety and long-term results. If you are considering liposuction or body sculpting, I invite you to schedule a consultation at Aesthetic Associate Centre where we can discuss your goals and determine the best plan for you—one that prioritizes your health, safety, and satisfaction.

Your body deserves the highest level of care. Make an informed decision and choose a specialist who puts your well-being first.

Skip to content