Choosing the right plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you can make when considering surgery. In Australia, it’s vital to understand the difference between various titles and qualifications to ensure you receive safe, ethical, and expert care.\
Cosmetic Surgeon vs Specialist Plastic Surgeon
The term “cosmetic surgeon” is not a protected title in Australia. This means that any medical doctor can legally use this term, even without specialist surgical training. Some may have general medical degrees or training in other fields but not the rigorous education required for safe surgical practice.
In contrast, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is a medical practitioner who has:
- Completed at least 12 years of medical and surgical education
- Undergone 5 years of accredited specialist training in plastic and reconstructive surgery
- Been awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic Surgery
- Registered with AHPRA as a specialist in plastic surgery
These qualifications are your assurance of high standards, surgical expertise, and adherence to strict ethical and professional guidelines.
Why FRACS (Plas) and ASPS Membership Matter
Only surgeons with FRACS (Plas) are recognised by the Australian Medical Council and the Medical Board of Australia as Specialist Plastic Surgeons. This qualification ensures:
- Extensive, supervised surgical experience
- Commitment to patient safety and ongoing professional development
- Access to peer-reviewed surgical research and education
Membership of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) further reinforces a surgeon’s commitment to ethical, evidence-based practice. ASPS members are held to the highest standards in clinical care and patient communication.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Surgeon
Before proceeding with surgery, it is essential to ask the following:
- Are you a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic Surgery?
- Are you a member of ASPS?
- What is your experience with this specific procedure?
- Where will the surgery be performed, and is the facility accredited?
- What are the risks, recovery time, and long-term considerations?
- Can I access before-and-after photos in a clinical setting (not on social media)?
Asking these questions helps ensure that your surgeon prioritises your safety, respects your right to informed consent, and provides care based on expertise and ethical standards.