The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) has announced that Amiya Prasad, MD, FACS has assumed the role of President, marking a formal transition in leadership for the organization. Dr. Prasad succeeds Jeffrey A. Swetnam, MD, FACS, FAACS, who now serves as Immediate Past President following the conclusion of his tenure.
“It has been an honor to serve the ABCS and advance the specialty of cosmetic surgery,” said Dr. Swetnam. “During my tenure, we accomplished significant advancements that will benefit the organization for years to come. I am confident in passing leadership to Dr. Prasad, whose experience and vision will continue to strengthen our mission.”
Under Dr. Swetnam’s leadership, the ABCS completed three major modernization initiatives in 2025. The organization introduced an updated oral examination format designed to better assess clinical competency and decision-making skills in cosmetic surgery candidates. The written examination was revised to incorporate current best practices and emerging techniques across the specialty. The ABCS also launched a redesigned website providing enhanced resources for patients seeking qualified surgeons and physicians pursuing board certification.
“These initiatives represent a significant investment in the future of cosmetic surgery education and patient safety,” Dr. Swetnam noted. “The updates to the examination processes help ensure that ABCS-certified surgeons demonstrate current knowledge and clinical expertise, while the new website makes it easier for patients to find qualified surgeons and understand the value of board certification.”
Dr. Prasad has already begun shaping the priorities of his presidency. In March 2026, the ABCS observed Cosmetic Patient Safety Awareness Month under his leadership, an occasion he used to reaffirm the organization's commitment to patient safety standards and direct patients toward resources that support informed decision-making when selecting a cosmetic surgeon.
“Patient safety is the foundation of everything the ABCS stands for,” Dr. Prasad said. “We encourage anyone considering a cosmetic procedure to research their surgeon's credentials and ask the right questions before moving forward. Verifying that procedures will be performed in an accredited facility and asking thorough questions during a consultation are essential steps toward a safe experience.”
Dr. Prasad brings extensive experience to the presidency. He previously served on the ABCS Board of Trustees, held the position of Vice President, and served as an Examiner for the organization. In addition to being a Diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Prasad is a Fellow of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and maintains board certification in Ophthalmology. He practices in New York City and Long Island, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid surgery.
“The ABCS has established itself as the leading authority in cosmetic surgery certification,” said Dr. Prasad. “I look forward to building on the foundation established by Dr. Swetnam and our Board of Trustees. Our focus will remain on maintaining rigorous standards, supporting cosmetic surgery research, and ensuring that patients can identify surgeons who have demonstrated expertise through our comprehensive certification process.”
Dr. Swetnam expressed appreciation for the support received during his presidency. “Many thanks to all who assisted me during my tenure, especially to our Board of Trustees and the home office personnel,” he said. “Their dedication made these accomplishments possible.”
The 2026 ABCS Executive Committee includes James R. Koehler, MD, DDS as President Elect, Scott Blyer, MD, FAACS as Treasurer, Kamran Dastoury, MD, DDS as Secretary, and Jeffrey A. Swetnam, MD, FACS, FAACS as Immediate Past President. The Board of Trustees consists of Patrick Abuzeni, MD, Jonathan R. Alford, MD, MPH, FAACS, Husam Elias, MD, DMD, FACS, George Hahm, MD, FACS, FAACS, Claudia Kim, DO, FAACS, Catherine L. Loflin, MD, FACS, FAACS, Sarath K. Palakodeti, DO, FACS, FAACS, Soheila Rostami, MD, Pasquale G. Tolomeo, MD, and Anh-Tuan N. Truong, MD, FACS. Michael W. Brady, JD serves as Executive Director, with Emily Valerius as Associate Executive Director.
The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is the only certifying board dedicated solely to evaluating a surgeon's knowledge and experience in cosmetic surgery. The organization assesses a surgeon's training, experience, and clinical knowledge through a comprehensive examination process. For over 40 years, the ABCS has maintained standards for ethical practice and patient safety in cosmetic surgery procedures including facial rejuvenation, breast surgery, and body contouring. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery is headquartered at 525 West Exchange Street Crete, IL 60417. Information about ABCS certification and finding a board-certified cosmetic surgeon is available on their website.
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American Board of Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Amiya Prasad
(425) 689-5665
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525 West Exchange Street Crete, IL 60417