The best way of determining if your surgeon possesses the proper training, education, experience, and safety skills is to see if he/she is listed as a board-certified plastic surgeon by the ABPS.
Plastic Surgeon in Houston, TX
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Meet James F. Boynton, MD, FACS
I am proud of my strong educational background which is the foundation for my dedication to excellence, starting with my undergraduate education at Duke University and my medical school education at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. Of my seven years of postdoctoral surgical training, the final two years were dedicated exclusively to Plastic Surgery training at St. Joseph Hospital in Houston, which has a long-standing tradition of outstanding advanced training in aesthetic plastic surgery. I am board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and I am an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons as well as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. I am also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
I continue to stay at the forefront of advanced techniques in plastic surgery by attending many local, regional, and national meetings devoted to aesthetic plastic surgery. In addition, I have traveled extensively and continue to work closely with many world-renowned experts in many areas of aesthetic plastic surgery, such as breast augmentation and enhancement, facial rejuvenation, and body contouring. I have been rigorously trained in plastic surgery, and I incorporate many of the latest techniques into my practice that focuses on aesthetic plastic surgery. My goals are to provide the safest, highest-quality plastic surgery to my patients in order to achieve beautiful and natural-looking results.
– Dr. James F. Boynton
Explore Topics On This Page
- What Is a Plastic Surgeon?
- What Sets Dr. Boynton Apart from Other Plastic Surgeons?
- Dr. Boynton’s Credentials
- Dr. Boynton’s Honors and Awards
- Dr. Boynton’s Research and Publications
- Choosing a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
- Researching Your Options for a Plastic Surgeon
- Questions to Ask Your Prospective Plastic Surgeon
- Dr. Boynton On RealSelf
Welcome to Boynton Plastic Surgery. We invite you to view a short video presentation to meet Dr. Boynton and his staff and explore the beautiful office. The links above will take you to sections on this page that offer more information about Dr. Boynton, his background, and his overall approach to care.
Meet Dr. James F. Boynton
What Is a Plastic Surgeon?
The title “plastic surgeon” is earned by physicians who first serve as surgical residents for at least three years (during the time in which they undergo rigorous training in all aspects of surgery), followed by three additional years of focused plastic surgery training. Plastic surgeons have generally undergone between six to eight years of advanced residency and fellowship training after medical school in both aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. Plastic surgery residency also includes training in microvascular and hand surgery. (Dr. Boynton did an additional one year fellowship in microvascular training as well as another fellowship in hand surgery, which is another subset of plastic surgery.) Due to this high level of surgical training, plastic surgeons have a comprehensive knowledge of the relationship between skin, muscles, and various other anatomical structures, allowing them to treat a wide range of cosmetic concerns, signs of aging, birth defects, injuries, skin ailments, and more with excellent aesthetic results.
Plastic Surgeon vs. Surgeon Who Performs Cosmetic Surgery
When selecting a doctor for aesthetic plastic surgery, it is important to distinguish between a plastic surgeon and a medical professional who performs cosmetic surgery. As highlighted above, a plastic surgeon is highly trained in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. Unfortunately, there are many medical practitioners who are trained in a different specialty yet also offer aesthetic treatments—some of whom may even refer to themselves as “cosmetic surgeons.” Why does this matter? In the event a complication should arise during surgery, a plastic surgeon typically has the knowledge, skill, and experience to properly address the issue whereas someone who has not received such extensive training might not be able to do so.
In short, a board-certified plastic surgeon—one who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery—generally possesses the appropriate level of education, surgical training, and expertise to not only perform cosmetic plastic surgery in the safest, most effective manner possible, but also to resolve any potential problems for an optimal aesthetic and functional result.
What Sets Dr. Boynton Apart from Other Plastic Surgeons?
When it comes to plastic surgeons and cosmetic enhancement professionals, there are many practitioners available, particularly in an area as large as Houston. Dr. Boynton’s extensive list of credentials, recognitions, and awards, along with his overall approach to care and commitment to innovation and advancement in the field of plastic surgery, are just a few of the things that make him stand out.
Honors and Recognitions
- One of America’s Top Doctors® – Castle Connolly
- Leading Physician of the World / Top Plastic Surgeon in Texas – International Association of Plastic Surgeons
- RealSelf Top Doctor for six consecutive years
- One of America’s Top Plastic Surgeons – Consumers’ Research Council of America
- One of Houston’s Top Doctors – Houstonia magazine
- Regional Top Doctor – U.S. News & World Report
- One of Houston’s Top Doctors – H-Texas magazine
You can read more about Dr. Boynton’s honors and awards in the section listed below on this page.
Dr. Boynton’s Three-Tiered Approach and Practice Philosophy
- Arduous dedication to achieving the best possible results – This involves up-to-date knowledge, state-of-the-art techniques and innovations in the field of aesthetic plastic surgery, and sound clinical surgical judgment and experience. Dr. Boynton has an eye for meticulous detail and is unwavering in his pursuit to achieve beautiful and natural-appearing results.
- Importance of Patient Safety – It is of paramount importance to choose a surgeon with good ethics, honesty, integrity, and surgical judgment, as well as one who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Sometimes certain patients are not good candidates for elective surgical procedures, and as a true patient advocate, Dr. Boynton makes the patient’s health his most important priority. He makes every effort to optimize an individual’s health before pursuing any elective surgical procedure.
- Compassion for patient care – From surgical procedures like abdominoplasty and liposuction to non-surgical treatments such as injectables, providing personalized patient care and attention to each and every individual is Dr. Boynton’s trademark. This starts at the initial consultation and lasts through each follow-up appointment after surgery.
Did You Know?
Dr. Boynton’s Credentials
Thank you for taking the time to review my credentials and professional associations in plastic surgery. I am very proud of my education and training. I am passionate about being a board-certified plastic surgeon, and I have focused and dedicated my practice for the past decade to the art of aesthetic plastic surgery.
Board Certification
Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery in 2006 and re-certified in 2016
Licensure
Texas – 2002
Hospital and Outpatient Surgery Center Privileges
- Memorial Hermann Surgery Center Greater Heights – Houston, TX
- Memorial Hermann Memorial City Hospital – Houston, TX – Section Chief of Plastic Surgery from 2009 – 2013
- Houston Methodist West Hospital – Katy, TX
- Houston Methodist Hospital (Medical Center) – Houston, TX
- Baylor St Luke’s Medical Center – Houston, TX
- St. Joseph Medical Center – Houston, TX
- The Women’s Hospital of Texas – Houston, TX
- River Oaks Surgical Center – Houston, TX
- Houston Surgery Center – Houston, TX
- Memorial Houston Surgery Center – Houston, TX
Professional Societies
Dr. Boynton is proud to be a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and especially honored to be a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). This prominent society is considered to be one of the most exclusive societies in the world dedicated to cutting-edge aesthetic plastic surgery. It has very high ethical standards, and only a fraction of board-certified plastic surgeons are invited to become members of ASAPS. These logos signify excellence in training as well as a commendable commitment to patient care, safety, and well-being. The ASAPS triangular “Cleopatra” logo signifies a practice and a surgeon that is focused and dedicated to the art of aesthetic plastic surgery.
- The American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- American College of Surgeons
- Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Harris County Medical Society
- Texas Medical Association
- American Medical Association
- University of Texas – Houston Medical School Alumni Association
International Mission Experience
- AGAPE in ACTION – Mission Trip to Perform Cleft Lip and Palate Repairs in the impoverished mountainous region of Santa Cruz del Quiche, Guatemala, May 2009
- OPERATION SAN JOSE – Mission Trip to Perform Cleft Lip and Palate Repairs with CHRISTUS St. Joseph Plastic Surgery, Sucre, Bolivia, February 10-19, 2005
- OPERATION SAN JOSE – Mission Trip to Perform Cleft Lip and Palate Repairs with CHRISTUS St. Joseph Plastic Surgery, Lima, Peru, March 8-16, 2002
Dr. Boynton’s Honors And Awards
- SuperDoctor Hall of Fame honoree – 2023
- Voted a Texas SuperDoctor by Texas Monthly 2013-2023
- Selected as one of “America’s Most Honored Doctors” by The American Registry – 2020 – 2021
- Voted one of “Texas’ Top Doctors” by Texas Monthly – 2019
- Selected as a “Top Doctor” in Plastic Surgery by U.S. News and World Report – 2012
- Castle Connolly selected Dr. Boynton as a “Regional Top Doctor” in Aesthetic Surgery – 2011-2023
- Voted one of “Houston’s Top Doctors” by The American Registry – 2019 – 2021
- Awarded Vitals’ “Patients’ Choice Award” – 2015 – 2019
- Voted a Texas SuperDoctors’ Rising Star – 2012
- Awarded RealSelf Top Doctor 2010-2017 and RealSelf Top 500 in 2015 and 2016
- Voted a “Top Doctor” by Houstonia Magazine – 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019
- Consistently voted one of Houston’s “Top Docs” by H-Texas® Magazine, 2005 – 2019
- Voted one of Houston’s “Professionals on the Fast Track” by H-Texas® Magazine, 2006
- Voted one of Houston’s Top Docs for Women by H-Texas® Magazine, 2007 – 2008
- Special Guest Reviewer of manuscripts for publications in the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal
- Adjunct member of the teaching staff for the Methodist Hospital Plastic Surgery Residency Training Program
- Winner of INAMED Academy Plastic Surgery Resident and Fellowship Scholarship for breast surgery – 2005
- 100th percentile on the 2015 Cosmetic Section Plastic Surgery Re-Certification Exam
- 98th percentile on 2005 Plastic Surgery In-Service Exam
- 92nd percentile on 2004 Plastic Surgery In-Service Exam
- Award from City of Houston for community service involvement with D-TAG program, which involves laser tattoo removal from youth gang members – 2003-2015
- Eagle Scout – Boy Scouts of America
- Dean’s List with Distinction – Duke University 1990 – 1993
DR. BOYNTON VOTED ONTO 2019 TEXAS SUPER DOCTORS® LIST
After being selected as a SuperDoctors® Texas Rising Star in 2012, Houston plastic surgeon James F. Boynton, MD was recognized for his exceptional surgical skill and expertise by being named to the 2013-2019 Texas Super Doctors® list—an honor earned by only 5% of doctors within their specific specialties and regions. This marks Dr. Boynton’s third consecutive year on the prestigious list comprised of peer-nominated physicians from all 50 states who have been autonomously critiqued on ethics, previous achievements, and a variety of other credentials.
To be named to the list, doctors need to first be nominated in their respective fields by their medical peers. Nominees will then be comprehensively evaluated by the Super Doctors® research staff on an independent basis. Focusing on “10 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement,” this meticulous assessment covers everything from years in practice to professional activities to board certifications. Once evaluated, nominated physicians are then segmented by specialty and reviewed by a group of doctors who obtained the highest scores in the previous year’s evaluation process. Following this “blue ribbon panel” critique, points accumulated by each individual throughout all stages of the selection process are then tallied, and the Super Doctors® list is formulated based on the highest-scoring physicians.
For more information about the selection process for the Super Doctors® list, click here.
DR. BOYNTON HAS BEEN VOTED ONTO SUPER DOCTORS® TEXAS FOR 2013 – 2019
In 2012, Texas Super Doctors®, an organization listing outstanding physicians in more than 30 medical specialties, named Dr. James F. Boynton as a Texas Super Doctors® Rising Star. The honor goes to only a handful of young physicians in Texas who have been fully licensed for no longer than 10 years and have proven significant achievements in their careers. The honorees are nominated by a group of their peers, with input from a panel of selected Texas Super Doctors, plus a review by researchers at Key 
Professional Media. Inc. Dr. Boynton’s recognition will be listed in a special advertising section in Texas Monthly in the July 2019 issue.
In order to be selected to this elite list, doctors are identified through a multi-step process that evaluates their degrees of peer recognition and professional achievement. A survey of doctors is then conducted to determine the nominees—doctors cannot nominate themselves. A thorough review of each candidate’s credentials, professional achievements, and peer recognition is also part of the selection process. Once the nominations are in, and research as well as the blue ribbon panel review have been conducted, points allotted for each of these criteria are totaled, resulting in the highest-scoring doctors being named to the Rising Stars list.
DR. BOYNTON CHOSEN AS ONE OF “AMERICA’S BEST PHYSICIANS” IN 2020 BY THE NATIONAL CONSUMER ADVISORY BOARD
The National Consumer Advisory Board selected Dr. Boynton as one of “America’s Best Physicians” in 2020. The private research organization was founded to provide the public with information on the best physicians in the U.S. based on nominations from patients, fellow doctors, a colleague, or by the board’s own selection committee. The nominee must then complete an application attesting to his or her experience, training, and other aspects of their careers. The board then begins a verification process of the nominee’s credentials, and evaluates testimonials and reviews relating to patients’ experiences in the doctor’s care. Once these steps are finalized, the doctor can be officially selected for inclusion on the “America’s Best Physicians” list. The National Consumer Advisory Board does not accept fees, advertising, or sponsorship donations for doctors to appear on the list.
DR. BOYNTON HAS BEEN SELECTED AS A “TOP DOCTOR” IN PLASTIC SURGERY BY U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT IN 2012
Every year, U.S. News and World Report releases a peer-nominated list of the country’s top doctors. This year, Dr. James F. Boynton has been recognized as one of them. Partnering with Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., publisher of America’s Top Doctors®, U.S. News’ goal in establishing the list was to single out credentialed doctors who specialize in a variety of fields and procedures and to assemble a knowledge base in which doctors from around the country can look to when referring patients to physicians in other fields. To be selected as a Top Doctor, candidates’ credentials and qualifications are evaluated by licensed doctors. Previously, nominations were obtained only from specific geographical locations; however, the nomination process is now conducted online and is available nationwide.
U.S. News’ “Top Doctor” list has built a strong foundation of data culled from Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors™ list. The physician-led research team carefully reviews qualifications for doctors being considered. By publishing the list of top doctors, patients can easily access a number of reliable and experienced doctors in a wide range of medical fields. Not only is the list beneficial for patients, but also for doctors looking to refer their patients to a licensed doctor in another medical field.
Doctors cannot nominate themselves, there is no application process, and they cannot pay to be selected. Participating doctors can submit up to 10 names for nomination in his or her own specialty, and up to 3 per specialty in other fields.
Every year, Castle Connolly issues direct mail and online surveys to thousands of physicians and other healthcare professionals asking them to identify doctors in each specialty throughout their region who exemplify excellence. Furthermore, the Castle Connolly physician-led research team conducts several phone calls with leading specialists, chairs of clinical departments, and vice presidents of medical affairs in an effort to identify top specialists for a comprehensive array of diseases and procedures.
The peer nominated doctors then undergo a rigorous screening—also conducted by the Castle Connolly research team—which includes a review of credentials such as medical educations, training, hospital affiliations, disciplinary histories, and more. Following the final screening, those doctors who are considered among the elite in their respective specialties and communities are selected for inclusion on the “Top Doctors” list. No medical professional can pay to be included in any Castle Connolly Guides®, magazine articles, or online directory.
Castle Connolly conducts this “Top Doctor” selection process with the utmost integrity and thoroughness, ultimately ensuring patients all over the United States have the information necessary to receive the most effective and ethical healthcare available.
HOUSTONIA NAMES DR. BOYNTON TO “TOP DOCTORS” LIST FOR 2013, 2015, 2017 & 2019
Houstonia, a community magazine distributing to a total of 10 counties in and around the Houston area, has named Dr. Boynton to its list of “Top Doctors” for 2013, 2015 & 2017. In order to compose this list, Houstonia surveyed over 15,000 physicians and nurse practitioners in the local community with one simple question: “If you or someone you loved needed medical care, whom would you choose?” Dr. Boynton, who was recognized for his high quality of patient care and ability to achieve excellent cosmetic surgery results, was one of only 11 plastic surgeons in the Greater Houston area in his speciality to be named to Houstonia’s elite list.
CONSUMERS’ RESEARCH COUNCIL OF AMERICA NAMED DR. BOYNTON AS ONE OF “AMERICA’S TOP PLASTIC SURGEONS”
Dr. Boynton was selected by the Consumers’ Research Council of America as one of “America’s Top Plastic Surgeons” in 2011. Consumers’ Research Council of America is an independent research company based in Washington, DC that evaluates professional services with the purpose of educating and assisting consumers in obtaining the finest professional services.
Plastic Surgeons are selected by a point value system that values experience (years in practice), training (education and continuing education), professional associations and medical societies, and Board Certification. Consumers’ Research Council of America prefers this point method over the survey method.
REALSELF TOP DOCTOR
Dr. Boynton is proud to have been selected as a “Top Doctor” by RealSelf from 2010-2016. Dr. Boynton was one of the first doctors in the Houston community to start answering questions on RealSelf, and he has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to answering consumer questions and encouraging patients to share their unbiased reviews and ratings.
Dr. Boynton was also named to RealSelf’s 500 Top Doctors in 2015. In recognition of his high patient ratings and favorable feedback on his contributed expertise. This Top Doctor badge is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf Doctor community across the globe.
DR. BOYNTON WAS SELECTED AS A “LEADING PHYSICIAN OF THE WORLD” AND “TOP PLASTIC SURGEON IN TEXAS” BY THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PLASTIC SURGEONS
Dr. Boynton was selected as a “Leading Physician of the World” and “Top Plastic Surgeon in Texas” by the International Association of Plastic Surgeons (IAPS) in 2011. Plastic Surgeons that are nominated for this are selected for their experience, forward thinking, and highest quality of care.
IAPS’s reputation for excellence derives from the most exacting levels of quality they demand from their members, each of which must pass a scrupulous evaluation process of their education, training, medical techniques, and consumer ratings. This set of standards is very stringent and is what maintains the high level of integrity in the organization. Among being a high honor in the community, the International Association of Plastic Surgeons is also a resource for patients looking for a doctor in their area.
The IAHCP Marketing and Research Department nominates top physicians based on data collected from a variety of different resources, such as education, medical affiliations, consumer reviews, and more. In addition to individual selection, active members have the ability to nominate peers, colleagues, mentors, and associates.
VOTED ONE OF HOUSTON’S TOP DOCTORS BY H-TEXAS MAGAZINE
Dr. Boynton has been voted one of Houston’s Top Doctors each year since 2005. He was also voted one of Houston’s Top Doctors on the Fast Track in 2007 and Houston’s Top Doctors for Women in 2008. These are great honors, as the selection process involves a combination of both medical professionals and the public. Only the top 1-2% of doctors receiving votes are awarded the Top Doctor designation. Voting is done by mailed ballots and online voting from the H-Texas Magazine website: www.HTexas.com
DR. BOYNTON WAS AWARDED DOCTORS’ CHOICE AWARD BY HEALTH AND FITNESS MAGAZINE 2008-2011
Dr. Boynton was proud to be recognized in Health and Fitness Magazine as one of Houston’s Top physicians for Cosmetic/Reconstructive Surgery. The Doctors’ Choice Award was given to 273 of Houston’s top physicians based on votes from their peers. Health and Fitness Magazine mailed letters to more than 2,800 Houston-area physicians, encouraging them to cast a ballot for the top doctors in Houston. The confidential online survey asked doctors to name two physicians that they would send their family or friends to.
VOLUNTEER FOR THE DTAG PROGRAM; DR. BOYNTON HAS RECEIVED THIS AWARD ANNUALLY FROM THE CITY OF HOUSTON SINCE 2005
DR. BOYNTON IS AN EAGLE SCOUT
Dr. Boynton’s Research And Publications
Publications
SPECIAL GUEST REVIEWER OF MANUSCRIPTS FOR PUBLICATIONS IN THE AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY JOURNAL
PLASTIC SURGERY PULSE NEWS
Dr. Boynton wrote a chapter on breast augmentation that has been published in the online publication Plastic Surgery Pulse News.
AESTHETIC SOCIETY NEWS VOLUME 13 #3
“To all young plastic surgeons: Stay on the Path.”
NATIONALLY INDEXED PUBLICATION LISTINGS
“Rhytidectomy and Parotidectomy Combined in the Same Patient.”
Boynton JF, Cohen BE, Barrera A.
SOURCE
Christus St. Joseph Hospital, Plastic Surgery Residency Program, Houston, TX, USA. [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Until now, aesthetic goals in parotid surgery have seldom been addressed because oncologic concerns have largely overshadowed aesthetic issues for patients with parotid masses. Fortunately, the majority of parotid masses are benign pleomorphic adenomas that rarely recur, leaving a large group of patients healthy after their parotid surgery, with some desiring aesthetic improvement in their facial appearance. Traditional parotidectomy incisions leave a visible scar on the neck as well as a visible hollow in the retromandibular region, which can extend onto the cheek. A rhytidectomy approach to the parotid gland allows for a more concealed, aesthetically appealing scar while maintaining good visibility and access to the parotid gland. By performing bilateral sub-SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) rhytidectomy after a parotidectomy, facial symmetry and balance is enhanced, and these aesthetic deformities can be minimized. The SMAS flap can help to fill the hollow and form a tissue barrier over the resected gland to prevent gustatory sweating. Finally, the incision scarring is minimized with a rhytidectomy-type approach. Two cases are reported in which patients underwent both rhytidectomy and parotidectomy. In the one case, the procedures were performed in the same surgical setting. In the other case, they were performed in a delayed fashion. These cases exemplify the possibility of addressing facial aesthetic goals of rejuvenation in a patient requiring parotid resection.
PMID: 16402160
[PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
“The Effect of Forearm Bracing on Radioulnar Impingement.”
Boynton JF, Budoff JE, Clifford JW.
SOURCE
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this clinical study was to compare patients’ symptoms and radioulnar convergence following distal radioulnar reconstruction with and without a functional brace on. Standardized radiographs were taken of the involved wrist at rest, while holding a weight, and during maximum power grip. All radiographs were then repeated while wearing a prefabricated functional brace (Maramed, Miami, FL). The functional brace did not decrease radioulnar convergence and, at rest, the brace actually increased radioulnar convergence. Despite this, all patients who experienced pain without the brace were pain free with the brace on. We conclude that forearm bracing may be a useful nonoperative treatment for residual pain following DRUJ salvage surgery, though its mechanism of action is unclear.
PMID: 15757768
[PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Book Chapters
Hand Surgery Update III
Collins ED and Boynton JF: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Repetitive Stress Injury. In T. Trumble (Ed.). Hand Surgery Update III. Rosemont , IL : American Society for Surgery of the Hand, 2003.
Journal Publications
- Boynton, JF. My refined approach to breast augmentation. Plastic Surgery Pulse News 4(4):28-32, 2012.
- Boynton JF, Budoff JE, and Clifford JW. The Effect of Forearm Bracing on Radioulnar impingement. J Hand Surg [Br]. 30(2): 157-61, 2005.
- Boynton JF, Cohen BE, and Barrera A. Rhytidectomy and Parotidectomy Combined in the Same Patient. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 30(1): 125-131, 2006.
Presentations
- American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Mandalay Bay-Las Vegas, NV, May 2009 (E-poster). Compression Garments in Liposuction: Comfortweave vs. Powernet Fabrics: Is There a Difference
- Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons, Warwick Hotel, Houston, TX, June 16, 2005.
Senior Resident Case Presentations - 2005 Cleft Palate – Craniofacial Association Meeting, Kingston Plantation, Myrtle Beach, SC, April 8, 2008.
A Comprehensive Program to Enhance Surgical Education in Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery - 2005 ASPS/PSEF Plastic Surgery Senior Residents Conference, Inter-Continental Hotel, Houston, TX, March 17, 2005.
Phenol and Croton Oil Peel in a Porcine Model: The Effect of Various Concentrations - Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, Barton Creek Country Club, Austin, TX, September 10, 2004.
Breast Augmentation with Periareolar Mastopexy - International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Hilton Americas – Houston Hotel, Houston, TX, August 2004 (poster).
Aesthetic Refinement in the Cleft Palate Patient - Baylor College of Medicine Annual Orthopedic Academic Symposium, Medical Center Marriott Hotel, Houston, TX, June 27, 2003.
The Effect of Forearm Bracing on Radioulnar Impingement Following Ulnar Head Resection - CHRISTUS St. Joseph Hospital, Plastic Surgery Grand Rounds, Houston, TX, December 2002 and June 2004.
Genitourinary Reconstruction - CHRISTUS St. Joseph Hospital, Plastic Surgery Grand Rounds, Houston, TX, September 2003.
Metacarpal and Phalangeal Fractures - University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Plastic Surgery Grand Rounds, Houston, TX, April 2004.
Dislocations and Injuries in the Digits - Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery Grand Rounds, Houston, TX, Fall 2003.
Carpal Fractures - Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery Grand Rounds, Houston, TX, Spring 2003.
Hand Infections, Injection Injuries, and Compartment Syndrome - CHRISTUS St. Joseph Hospital, Suturing Workshop and Symposium for Family Practice Residents, Houston, TX, Fall 2001.
- Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, General Surgery Grand Rounds, Phoenix, AZ, Fall 2000.
Flexor Suppurative Tenosynovitis - Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, General Surgery Grand Rounds, Phoenix, AZ, Spring 2000.
Esophageal Atresia - Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, General Surgery Grand Rounds, Phoenix, AZ, Fall 1999.
Substernal Goiter - Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, General Surgery Grand Rounds, Phoenix, AZ, Spring 1999.
Popliteal Artery Aneurysm - Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, General Surgery Grand Rounds, Phoenix, AZ, Fall 1998.
Rectus Sheath Hematoma
Dr. Boynton’s Personal Life
Choosing a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Choosing a plastic surgeon is not something that should be taken lightly. A number of factors should be considered, including training, education, results, safety, personality, and chemistry. But how do you make an informed decision based on a 30 minute consultation? The answer is: Do your research!
Before scheduling your consultation, you should already be abreast of the surgeon’s credentials. Most surgeons will post their credentials on their websites, but deciphering the different information may be difficult. Surgeons will often pad their résumés with numerous things, trying to hide the fact they do not possess the two most important qualifiers—board certification by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
The first board, ABMS, is the umbrella organization that assists the 24 approved medical specialty boards—including the ABPS—with the development of standards, evaluations, and certification of their surgeons. ABMS is recognized as the “gold standard” in physician certification.
In a way, the ABPS is a sub-group of the ABMS. The most important credential your plastic surgeon MUST have is board certification by the ABPS. This alone will answer many of the questions stated above: training, education, proven results, and safety. Earning certification from ABPS assures the public that a surgeon has successfully completed an approved educational program and passed a very rigorous examination designed to assess the knowledge, experience, and skills necessary to provide the highest quality of patient care in the specialty of plastic surgery.
In addition to board certification, it is important for patients who are interested in cosmetic procedures to look for plastic surgeons who are also members of ASAPS (The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery). This is a further refinement that helps identify a “specialized” aesthetic plastic surgeon based on the rigorous criteria, experience, and training in aesthetic plastic surgery that is required to be a member of this sub-specialty society that focuses on “cutting edge” aesthetic plastic surgery, best techniques/practices, and attention to patient safety. Dr. Boynton has been a proud member of this society since 2010.
The best way of determining if your surgeon possesses the proper training, education, experience, and safety skills is to see if he/she is listed as a board-certified plastic surgeon by the ABPS.
To verify a surgeon’s board certification through ABMS and ABPS, follow the link www.abms.org, or call 1-866-ASK-ABMS (275-2267). To search for a physician online, you will need to make an account using your email and a newly created password.
Dr. Boynton wishes to provide this information because, as a member of both ABMS and ABPS, he is aware of the importance of educating the public. The aesthetic surgery market has been attractive to all sorts of doctors, including dermatologists and dentists. They may even claim “board-certified,” but it is vitally important you are aware of which board certification your plastic surgeon should have. For all those who have chosen Dr. Boynton as their plastic surgeon, he thanks you and hopes you feel secure knowing he is board-certified by ABMS and ABPS.
Anita- Patient Testimonial
Researching Your Options for a Plastic Surgeon
As noted above, it is important to familiarize yourself with a prospective plastic surgeon’s credentials, experience, and educational history before making a final decision. While conducting your research into the best plastic surgeon for your needs, it can also be very helpful to read reviews of the doctor from patients who have undergone treatment at the practice. These can often provide a general overview of the type of experience that can be expected and the results that have been attained from specific procedures. A before-and-after photo gallery, which may be available on the plastic surgeon’s website or upon request at the practice, can also provide insight into the doctor’s capabilities in terms of outcomes that can be achieved. Once you are ready to meet with the surgeon in consultation, you should never feel hesitant about asking questions and expecting them to address any inquiries you may have about particular treatments, their level of experience and skill, and the process going forward.
Questions to Ask Your Prospective Plastic Surgeon
Researching the educational background and credentials of a plastic surgeon is a great first step in selecting the right doctor. Arguably more important, however, is meeting with your prospective physician in-person during a consultation to really get to know him or her and determine if they are the best fit for you. The following are several questions you should ask to help make this important decision:
- Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
- How frequently do you perform this treatment?
- How will you tailor the procedure based on my unique needs and goals?
- What will the recovery process be like after surgery?
- What type of results can I realistically expect?
- Are there any risks associated with this treatment?
- How will you handle any possible complications that might arise?
- What are the limitations of this procedure?
- Where will surgery be performed, and is the facility accredited?
- If necessary, will a board-certified anesthesiologist administer anesthesia?
- May I view before-and-after photos of patients with similar aesthetic concerns and goals?
- Are there any previous patients who would be willing to speak with me about their experience?
- What will happen if I am unhappy with my final results?
While this is by no means a comprehensive list, these questions should serve as a good starting point for building trust and establishing a strong relationship with your potential plastic surgeon. If you are uncomfortable with any answers you receive, you should not hesitate to ask for clarity and/or continue your search elsewhere. In the end, you want a qualified and ethical doctor who is honest, who listens carefully to your needs and desires, and whose goals for treatment exactly align with your own.
Dr. Boynton on RealSelf
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Dr. James F. Boynton will be happy to meet with you and talk more about your cosmetic enhancement goals. If you would like to schedule a consultation, or if you would like more information on Dr. Boynton’s experience, credentials, and background in plastic surgery, please contact our practice.