It’s one thing to find a Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon who is highly trained and competent, with practical experience. It’s something else when that surgeon has the touch of an artist. That’s what you’ll find with Dr. Michael S. Kluska and the Center for Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery.
Board certified in both Plastic/Reconstructive and General Surgery, Dr. Kluska pursued an undergraduate degree in Art at Washington and Jefferson College, Washington, PA. He then attended medical school at the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences, Des Moines Iowa.
Dr. Kluska completed his internship and general surgery residency at the Cleveland Clinic Health System – South Pointe Hospital. Further, he pursued a fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Ohio University, Cleveland Clinic Health System and South Pointe Hospital.
Dr. Kluska’s Mission
Dr. Kluska believes every individual is a unique work of art. His focus is enhancing one's already existing natural beauty through medically sound procedures. The goal is to help each and every patient achieve a natural look reflective of their own distinct inner beauty.
Dr Kluska appreciates that plastic surgery is more than a science. It is also a form of art that requires skill, patience and the ability to recognize the importance of treating the body as a integrated whole. By striving to maintain this delicate balance, Dr. Kluska is able to carry out his mission of creating "art in motion."
Whether pursuing an aesthetic change or restoration of physical function, Dr. Kluska and his team emphasize functional beauty by seeking to enhance quality of life through medically sound procedures, consultations, and spa services.
At The Center, we can help you achieve a distinct look reflective of your own inner beauty. Dr. Kluska's 15 years of medical training combined with an art degree gives him the aesthetic advantage of using art and science to bring out the beauty in you.
Recognition and Awards
Dr. Kluska was asked about his mission for patients when he was interviewed by Plastic Surgery Practice, being chosen as one of the best plastic surgeons in Pennsylvania and the entire country.
In the interview, Dr. Kluska says he find the results he achieves for patients to be motivating. "...With plastic surgery, there are external changes which provide the patient and the surgeon instant visual gratification."
Dr. Kluska adds that he works to find the right treatment for each patient's individual needs, saying that, "Balance is key."
Hospital Privileges
Excella Health System/ Westmoreland Regional Hospital- Greensburg, PA
Indiana Regional Medical Center- Indiana, PA
Greenbrier Valley Medical Center- Ronceverte, WV
Affiliations
Fellow – American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
Fellow – American College of Osteopathic Surgery
Diplomat – National Board of Osteopathic Examiners
Member – American Osteopathic Association
Member – Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association
Education
Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, October 2002
Ohio University
Cleveland Clinic Health System
South Pointe Hospital
Warrensville Heights, Ohio
Board Certified General Surgeon October 2002
Ohio University
Cleveland Clinic Health System
South Pointe Hospital
Warrensville Heights, Ohio
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, June 1993
University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences
Des Moines, Iowa
Bachelor of Arts – Art, May 1989
Washington and Jefferson College
Washington, Pennsylvania
High School Graduate, May 1985
Greensburg Central Catholic High School
Greensburg, Pennsylvania
CHOOSING A PLASTIC SURGEON
Choosing a plastic surgeon can be a time intensive process. As a patient or consumer of this rapidly growing industry, one can be overwhelmed with information not only from the cosmetic industry but also from the various providers of cosmetic surgical services. As a result, patients must educate themselves on the available products but also on the available physicians. With this in mind it is important to follow a 3-step process.
First, research the product.
Whether it is Botox or facelift surgery, go on the Internet and explore all available information. Many times, if the physician is reputable, his or her name will be featured on the company’s home page as a provider of that company’s product. This also insures the consumer that the physician is appropriately trained.
Second, research the physician.
When you call a physicians office, the staff should be able to answer any questions that you may have regarding the doctor. Questions that you must consider in this process include;
- Credentials are key!
a. Is the doctor a Board Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon? This is extremely important due to the fact that today many physicians other the plastic surgeons are now dabbling in the cosmetic surgical arena. These physicians are taking “weekend” courses and then offering cosmetic surgery and procedures. In addition, many times they are also discounting the procedures and services in order to lure the patient. Remember the reason that it takes so long to become a Plastic Surgeon is because there is a lot of information and technical skill that one must acquire to offer superior surgical care. This process is on average 15 years including college.
b. An easy way to differentiate the impostors is to find out if they have hospital privileges to perform the cosmetic surgery that you are interested in. Most hospitals will NOT give hospital surgical privileges unless the physician is board certified in the specific surgical specialty that he or she is offering to the public.c. Also, you get what you pay for. If you are looking for a quality product and quality care for you own body, you should be willing to pay the going rate. Discounted rates many times mean less than optimum service and generic or black market products. - Physician Charisma!
Interview multiple physicians. Set up several consults with plastic surgeons in your area. Meet with them and get to know their staff. Most plastic surgeons are similarly trained but it’s their personality that you also have to deal with. After all, if you are committing to a procedure or service, you will undoubtedly be spending a lot of time with them. For this reason, establishing a rapport with your physician is an essential step in achieving a positive outcome.
Third, talk to others!
By now you or someone you know has had some type of cosmetic surgery or procedure performed. Talk to your friends and family; get their take on the procedure as well as the surgeon doing it. This may be one of the most important questions that you may ask. Most people are extremely honest when it comes to their physician. The public sets extremely high standards for those in the service industry and you should do the same when choosing your physician.
In conclusion, every patient is unique with his or her own individual needs. It is crucial to select a plastic surgeon that recognizes your specific needs and is dedicated to assisting you in achieving your aesthetic goals.
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