Start with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia public register, which lets you search any doctor by name and confirm their licence class, specialty, and any practice conditions.
Next, check the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada directory for FRCSC certification in Plastic Surgery or Otolaryngology, the two specialties trained to perform nose surgery in Canada. Membership in the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons or the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery is another good sign.
Then ask where the surgery happens. In British Columbia, private operating rooms must be accredited under the College’s Non-Hospital Medical and Surgical Facilities Accreditation Program. Hospital privileges at a site such as Vancouver General Hospital or UBC Hospital add another layer of oversight. Be cautious with the loose title cosmetic surgeon, which is not a protected specialty.
