What is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon?

A Specialist Plastic Surgeon is a Commonwealth Government accredited plastic surgeon, trained and qualified to perform invasive reconstructive and cosmetic 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.

Why should I choose a Specialist Plastic Surgeon?

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, including at least 5 years of specialist postgraduate training. All surgical procedures carry risk, but you can reduce the chance of risk and complication by consulting a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who is trained, qualified and accredited to perform reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.

How are Specialist Plastic Surgeons educated, trained and accredited?

Specialist Plastic Surgeons are accredited by the Commonwealth Governments of Australia and New Zealand, through the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and New Zealand Medical Council (NZMC) respectively, to perform all aspects of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. All Specialist Plastic Surgeons must undergo extensive medical education and training to become accredited. The surgical specialist pathway includes a minimum of 12 years medical and surgical education, including at least 5 years of specialist postgraduate training. The five year postgraduate Surgical Education and Training Program (SET) for surgical registrars in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery is provided by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and administered by the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons Inc (ASPS). It is important to note that RACS is the only College in Australia that is accredited by the Commonwealth Government to deliver specialist surgical training. Upon completion of their surgical education and training, qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeons become “Fellows” of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).

Where can I find a Specialist Plastic Surgeon?

The Find a Surgeon function on this website provides a comprehensive listing of all Specialist Plastic Surgeons in Australia, who are members of ASPS. We recommend that you shortlist at least 2 to 3 surgeons for the initial consultation.