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Monday, August 12

Is Your Surgeon Really A Plastic Surgeon?

3 out of 5 Women Don't Know The Difference Between A Cosmetic Surgeon vs A Plastic Surgeon!

If the thought of getting surgery performed by a doctor who is not properly trained sounds scary, consider this: 3/5 or 60% of women aren't aware of the difference between a cosmetic doctor and a plastic surgeon.  Don’t get misled! You deserve the truth when evaluating aesthetic doctors. A recent survey by realself in the US, confirmed that 60% of women don't understand the difference between cosmetic v plastic surgeons and therefore are confused when it comes to chosing a qualified surgeon with the right credentials and experience to perform their cosmetic surgery.  Unfortunately, Australian consumers are also confused with a surgeon's qualifications.

Confused by the term 'Cosmetic Surgeon'?

Don't be fooled by the word 'surgeon'!!  Sounds convincing right?  But if you dig a little deeper you will soon realise that anyone with a basic medical degree in Australia graduates with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery - can you believe it??  Be aware that advertising and titles can be misleading!!

Who can perform cosmetic surgery procedures in Australia?

In Australia, it is legal for anyone with a basic medical degree straight out of medical school to perform any surgical procedure including breast augmentation, breast reductions, tummy tucks, etc.   Adding to the confusion is that many cosmetic doctors advertise and advertise as 'cosmetic surgeons' causing most people to believe they have had extensive surgical training, even if they have had none at all!

Is Your Surgeon Really A Plastic Surgeon?

When choosing your surgeon it's so important to understand the difference in training and qualifications!!  Here's what you should know:

#1 Training: Specialist Plastic Surgeons have at least 8-12 years of additional surgical training following medical school, whereas cosmetic doctors may only hold basic medical degrees and still be allowed to perform cosmetic surgery.

#2 Qualifications: Specialist plastic surgeons are Fellows of The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). FRACS surgeons are highly qualified specialists who stay up-to-date with the latest developments in their area of skill. They have considerable knowledge and provide the best possible care to their patients. They have undertaken years of additional training with extensive board examinations by The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. After passing training and grueling examinations specialist plastic surgeons should have the following qualifications in their Title: FRACS (Plastic Surgery).

#3 Safety: A Specialist Plastic Surgeon puts safety above all else.

Take home tip: check if your surgeon is certified by The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons by looking for title Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MBBS FRACS Plastic Surgery).

Plastic Surgeon vs Cosmetic Surgeon

You can find out more about specialist plastic surgeons and qualifications by clicking on the links below:

You can learn how to verify your surgeon's qualifications here.

Learn about Specialist Surgeons here. 

Check if your surgeon is listed as a Fellow of The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons here.

Patient safety and your surgeon's qualifications read more here.

What is Realself Verified?

In order to help consumers find appropriately qualified specialist plastic surgeons, RealSelf launched RealSelf VerifiedSM, a first-of-its-kind program that makes it easier for consumers to shop for plastic surgeons and aesthetic providers.  The symbol signifies that a surgeon has been vetted and has passed a lengthy checklist.

What is Realself?

Realself is an online platform where millions of people go to learn about cosmetic surgery and treatments and make more informed choices about cosmetic surgeries and treatments.  Patients can also connect with verified board-certified surgeons.

For more information about RealSelf Verified or to find a surgeon near you, please visit www.realself.com/find.

What does a realself verified member mean?

By choosing a RealSelf Verified Doctor like me, you get peace of mind I have the right credentials, experience, and patient satisfaction for your procedure. Visit my RealSelf profile to see for yourself.

Realself verified member Dr Eddie Cheng

Dr Eddie Cheng is a board certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Brisbane, Australia.  Socialise with us via Instagram and facebook @arplasticsurgery to learn more about Dr Eddie Cheng and our Team.

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Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

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