(HealthDay News) -- It seems you can't turn on the TV or read a magazine or newspaper lately without seeing something about the increase in numbers of cosmetic surgeries.

Before you consider getting a nip and tuck, it's important to know how to choose the right surgeon.

Whether you're considering cosmetic surgery to improve your appearance or reconstructive surgery to correct defects or improve function, you want a surgeon with the skill and training to help achieve your goals.

Here are some questions the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends you ask the doctor before you let him or her raise a scalpel or a laser:

• Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
• Do you have hospital privileges to perform this surgery? If so, at which hospitals?
• How many procedures of this type have you performed?
• Where and how will you perform my surgery?
• Is the surgical facility accredited or in the process of being accredited by a national or state-recognized accrediting organization?
• What are the risks involved with my procedure?
• How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
• Will I need to take time off work? If so, how long?
• How much will my procedure cost? Are financing options available?