Deciding to undergo a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure is a major decision and one that should not be taken lightly. There are many considerations including those related to selecting the surgeon performing the procedure to your individual circumstances and expectations:.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some important factors you should consider when choosing a surgeon, including the important distinction between a ‘cosmetic’ surgeon and ‘plastic’ surgeon.
If you have any questions about choosing the right plastic surgeon or would like to have a confidential discussion about a particular type of procedure, we invite you to get in touch with Brighton Plastic Surgery today. Call (03) 9592 0522 or submit a confidential enquiry via our website.
Things to consider when choosing a plastic surgeon:
- Of utmost importance: research and understand the surgeons qualifications and experience
- Check that the premises from which the surgeon operates is accredited
- Enquire as to other locations that the surgeon operates or hospitals they work or have worked in
- Enquire how often the surgeon has performed the procedure you require
- Assess the surgeons willingness to answer any questions you may have
- Ensure realistic expectations and outcomes for the procedure are discussed and agreed
- Ask what you can expect before, during and after the procedure
- Understand procedure costs
- Ask around – often it is those closest to you who will recommend the best surgeon in your area
It is important to do your homework and ensure you choose a qualified specialist plastic surgeon. We are advocates for our patients doing their own research however in selecting a surgeon and assessing their qualifications it is important our clients understand some basic terminology.
What is the difference between a Cosmetic Surgeon and a Specialist Plastic Surgeon?
The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons website stipulates that “A Specialist Plastic Surgeon is a Commonwealth Government accredited plastic surgeon, trained and qualified to perform invasive cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in public and private hospitals, and accredited day surgeries. In Australia, the national Medical Board states that the “Specialist Plastic Surgeon” title can only be used by FRACS approved specialist surgeons in the recognised Specialty of Plastic Surgery.”
While the terms are similar, it is critical to understand that they mean very different things.
In Australia, it is legal for any doctor with a medical degree to perform surgery; they are allowed to refer to themselves as ‘cosmetic surgeons’
Plastic surgeons, on the other hand, have completed a medical degree and an additional 8-10 years of postgraduate surgical training (including minimum 5 years’ specialist training) and hold a specialist degree in surgery.
At Brighton Plastic Surgery, we are passionate about patient education and helping our prospective patients understand this important distinction when choosing a plastic surgeon for their desired procedure.
Why choose a specialist plastic surgeon?
Due to the extensive training, plastic surgeons are trained specifically in reconstructive surgeries.
The nature of our industry means that plastic surgeons need to be adaptable, creative, and nimble. Procedures can be complex, and as results are visible externally, patients understandably want an aesthetically-pleasing outcome.
As specialist plastic surgeons, our team is constantly at the forefront of new and emerging technologies, techniques, and systems. We offer our patients effective and safe plastic and cosmetic surgery in Melbourne to help them achieve their aesthetic and functional goals.
What should you look for in a plastic surgeon?
5 letters: FRACS
If you are currently researching plastic surgeons in Melbourne, it’s likely that you have noticed the following acronym: FRACS.
FRACS stands for Fellow of the Australasian College of Surgeons, and is a qualification assigned to surgeons who have completed additional years of intensive training. These five small letters hold important weight; no matter which surgeon you choose, ensure you are choosing a FRACS surgeon.
If you’d like to explore FRACS surgeons, you can do so on the Surgeons.org website.
What should I know before my plastic surgery consultation?
We encourage prospective patients to do their own research but also listen to their surgeon for advice and guidance.
In many cases, our patients come to us with a problem they would like solved, without necessarily knowing the exact procedure that can help them achieve that outcome.
Our plastic surgeons will listen to your concerns and desires to help you understand the procedures that may be best suited for you.
See before and after photos
In the interest of our patients’ privacy, we do not show before and after images on our website. However during your consultation your surgeon can show you before and after photos to help you understand what may be achieved.
Ask questions
We understand that choosing to undertake plastic surgery is a major life decision for many of our patients. So ask as many questions as you like, no matter how small or insignificant you think they might seem.
Have realistic expectations
While your surgeon is highly skilled and trained, the truth is that no plastic surgeon can ever guarantee results. Be realistic about what certain procedures can and cannot achieve.
Inform your surgeon about your medical history
Let your surgeon know about any pre-existing conditions, medical conditions, allergies, and past procedures. This information is invaluable for both you and your surgeon to help you choose the most suitable procedure.
Book a consultation with our specialist plastic surgeons
Mr Mutimer is a specialist plastic surgeon based in Melbourne. He performs a range of procedures for men and women, particularly face surgery.
Associate Professor Shayan is a specialist plastic surgeon based in Melbourne. He performs a range of procedures for men and women, particularly breast surgery.
Mr Mutimer and A/Prof Shayan consult personally with each prospective patient during a private meeting, providing detailed information about the procedure they are considering and the outcome they desire.
Also at Brighton Plastic Surgery you can meet Dr Lipi Shukla and Dr Rob Capstick, both of whom have their own specialties, including skin cancer surgery in Melbourne.
