CHOOSING A PLASTIC SURGEONThere is so much to think about when booking surgery; we are here to help! book a consultation with Dr SharpHome > How to choose a plastic surgeonChoosing the right surgeon for you is the single most important factor when deciding to proceed with plastic, reconstructive or cosmetic surgery. Every surgeon has a different personality, approach and practice ethos so we encourage patients to visit more than one surgeon to find the one that is the right ‘fit’ for them. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your surgeon:Qualifications and trainingA Specialist Plastic Surgeon is a Commonwealth Government accredited plastic surgeon. They are qualified by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and trained to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in public hospitals, private hospitals and accredited day surgeries. A qualified plastic surgeon will have the letters ‘FRACS’ after their name, meaning that they are a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.In Australia, the Australian Medical Board deems that the title ‘specialist plastic surgeon’ title can only be used by FRACS approved specialist surgeons in the recognised specialty of plastic surgery. Furthermore, in Queensland doctors cannot identify themselves as surgeons if they do not have this qualification, so if you are searching for a surgeon, check this database to ensure they are in fact qualified.Most plastic surgeons in Australia are also members of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).Honesty and ethosYou should feel comfortable and honest when discussion your procedure. Your surgeon will provide a comfortable and safe environment to express your concerns, fears – and ask those questions you might worry are silly (there are no silly questions when it comes to considering surgery)! They will provide you with best practice advice and guidance based upon what it best for you, even if it is not always what you want to hear. Their honesty will ensure you have realistic expectations as to what your surgery can achieve, and a full understanding of your options and potential outcomes.Pre and post operative supportHaving surgery is more than just a consultation appointment and hospital visit. Your surgeon will provide as many pre operative consultations as you require to make a considered and informed decision. They may ask you not to make a decision on the day, and to go home and review your options, coming back at a later date to discuss it further. Their team will support you before your procedure with ample opportunities to ask questions and receive resources and information about your surgery. After your surgery, you should be provided with 24/7 support, post operative appointments and follow up care should you have any concerns, complications or questions.
