You’re thinking of getting a cosmetic procedure done. Naturally, you’re going to do your research. You’ll likely Google “best cosmetic surgeon in Pune” or scroll through Instagram before-and-afters. But here’s a lesser-known tip that could be the single most important factor in your journey: Check if your cosmetic surgeon is an ISAPS member.
ISAPS stands for the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and choosing a plastic surgeon affiliated with this global body isn’t just about status or prestige; it’s about your safety, your results, and your peace of mind.
So, what does it really mean for a plastic surgeon to be part of ISAPS? And more importantly, what does it mean for you?
Let’s break it down.
Why ISAPS Membership Matters to Patients
Most patients focus on a surgeon’s reviews, website, or before-and-after galleries, and those are important. But ISAPS brings another layer of reassurance, especially for those looking for aesthetic plastic surgery in Pune, across India, or even from abroad.
According to Dr. Ashish Davalbhakta, renowned ISAPS plastic surgeon in India, “ISAPS helps ensure that its members maintain the highest international standards of safety, ethics, and patient care. When patients choose an ISAPS member, they’re not just choosing a doctor. They’re choosing a global network of vetted professionals who learn, train, and collaborate across borders.”
What Exactly Is ISAPS?
ISAPS is the only international organization that exclusively represents board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeons. It includes members from over 110 countries and aims to standardize excellence in aesthetic surgery across the globe.
Think of it as the Harvard League of plastic surgery, except it’s not enough to just apply. Surgeons must undergo rigorous credentialing, prove their qualifications, and stay continually updated on advances in aesthetic medicine. It’s a true mark of international trust.
How ISAPS Benefits You—the Patient
1. You’re Getting a Surgeon Who’s Been Vetted
ISAPS membership isn’t a badge anyone can just buy or claim. Surgeons go through qualification checks, education audits, and peer recommendations. In India, this vetting is overseen by the National Secretary, currently Dr. Davalbhakta himself, who personally reviews and scrutinizes member applications.
2. Your Safety Is the Priority
ISAPS promotes a global concept called the “Safety Diamond”, made up of:
- Patient (you),
- Surgeon (their skills and experience),
- Facility (hospital/clinic quality),
- Procedure (whether the right one is being done safely).
This structured focus on safety is constantly reinforced through education, resources, and training shared among members.
“ISAPS lays heavy emphasis on patient safety. It helps all of us members stay aligned with the best practices around the world, especially in how we prepare for, perform, and follow up on procedures,” says Dr. Davalbhakta.
3. You’re Accessing Global Knowledge
Dr. Davalbhakta, for instance, has trained in the UK and the USA, worked at institutions like Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, and St. Andrews Centre for Plastic Surgery, and continues to be a board member and international faculty for ISAPS.
This international exposure means that you’re not just getting someone who trained once and stopped learning. You’re getting a surgeon who actively discusses complex cases with peers around the world, stays current with technological advances, and implements global gold standards in their clinic.
“It’s not about one case or one breakthrough. The quality of outcomes improves because of decades of learning, training, and exchanging ideas at global conferences. That’s what ISAPS brings,” explains Dr. Davalbhakta.
Why Dr. Ashish Davalbhakta’s ISAPS Journey Is Different
While many surgeons are ISAPS members, few hold the positions Dr. Davalbhakta does. Here’s a quick timeline of his association:
- 2005: Joined ISAPS on returning to India
- 2016-2020: Appointed India’s Education Council Representative
- 2023: Became National Secretary for India
- 2024: Appointed to the ISAPS Board of Directors, representing Asia
Through his leadership, India has seen a surge in participation and recognition on the global aesthetic surgery stage. He was recently awarded the Silver Medal at the ISAPS Olympiad in Singapore for his innovative work in periorbital rejuvenation.
Dr. Davalbhakta also founded Aesthetics Medispa in Pune, which has been recognized as India’s first cosmetic surgery fellowship centre by the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences. He also served as President of the Indian Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (IAAPS) in 2022-23.
What Should You Look for in a Cosmetic Surgeon?
Dr. Davalbhakta believes it goes beyond just certificates and memberships. Patient outcomes and satisfaction should be at the core of your decision-making.
“Patients should examine the consistency and quality of a surgeon’s results, read reviews, understand their training background, and ask the right questions. Memberships like ISAPS signal a commitment to excellence, but real trust comes from experience and outcomes.”
How to Verify If a Surgeon Is an ISAPS Member
It’s easy:
- Visit the official ISAPS website
- Go to the “Find a Surgeon” section
- Search by name or country
You can verify if a board-certified plastic surgeon in India, like Dr. Ashish Davalbhakta, is an active ISAPS member surgeon.
Final Thought: Recognition Is Not Just Prestige, It’s Protection
The world of plastic surgery tourism in India is growing. Patients from the UAE, UK, US, Africa, and Southeast Asia are seeking affordable plastic surgery in India with ISAPS-certified surgeons. But navigating this space safely means trusting credentials over charisma.
An ISAPS membership is a shortcut to identifying those who meet international safety and training benchmarks. It reflects years of specialized training, continued learning, and a global commitment to surgical excellence.
So the next time you’re researching the best cosmetic surgeon in Pune or anywhere else, make ISAPS part of your checklist.
Because your body, your face, and your safety deserve no less.
