According to a recent RealSelf Survey, nearly 3 out of 5 women in the U.S. did not know there was a difference between cosmetic and plastic surgeons. This is a somewhat scary statistic given that the demand for cosmetic surgery is increasing exponentially. The study concluded that 8 in 10 women in the US are unaware that medical professionals do not have to be board certified to perform cosmetic procedures. These cosmetic procedures include rhinoplasty and breast augmentation.
“This study highlights some of the most common misconceptions and why it’s so important to do your research. As nonsurgical treatments become more accessible and a wave of people seek procedures for the first time, patients must understand that it’s crucial to use RealSelf to fact-check a doctor’s credentials before booking a treatment,” Dr Lara Devgan, RealSelf Chief Medical Editor.
We’ve spoken about the difference between plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons once before on the Dr Mark Hanikeri blog, however it is a topic worth revisiting given the recent stats.
What is the difference between Specialist Plastic Surgeons and Cosmetic Surgeons?
The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that: ‘currently in Australia, it is legal for any doctor with a basic medical degree to perform surgery. Specialist Plastic Surgeons, on the other hand, have extensive surgical education and training including a minimum of 12 years medical and surgical education, with at least 5 years of specialist postgraduate training.‘
A doctor with equal qualifications to a General Practitioner can label themselves a “cosmetic surgeon” potentially after participating in a short course and after 6 years of medical training. A Specialist Plastic Surgeon has obtained 6 years medical training plus a further 12 years of specialist training in surgery and reconstruction. They are trained by the Royal Australiasian College of Surgeons which means they are a FRACS qualified surgeon. A Specialist Plastic Surgeon is highly skilled in reconstruction and surgery – the foundation of cosmetic surgery excellence.
We hope this clarifies the importance of doing your research when it comes to finding a Perth Plastic Surgeon. Make sure you ask for their credentials prior to booking a consultation.
You can check the AHPRA website to see if your surgeon is registered as a Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
Dr Mark Hanikeri is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Subiaco, Western Australia. The “Specialist Plastic Surgeon” title can only be used by surgeons in the recognised Specialty of Plastic Surgery. Mark has had 15 years’ experience as a specialist in cosmetic surgery of the body, breast and face.
To book a consultation with Dr Mark Hanikeri please call 08 9380 0311.
