Plastic Surgeons versus Other Cosmetic Providers

How are plastic surgeons different than other cosmetic providers Plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons are both medical doctors who specialize in improving the appearance of the face and body. However, there are some key differences between the two types of surgeons:

1. Training: Plastic surgeons are medical doctors who have completed additional specialized training in plastic surgery. They are qualified to perform a wide range of surgical and non-surgical procedures to reconstruct or repair defects in the face and body. Cosmetic surgeons may have a background in a variety of medical fields, and may not have the same level of specialized training in plastic surgery.

2. Scope of practice: Plastic surgeons are trained to perform a wide range of surgical and non-surgical procedures, including reconstructive surgery, hand surgery, and burn surgery. Cosmetic surgeons generally focus on improving the appearance of the face and body through procedures such as facelifts, liposuction, and breast augmentation.

3. Board certification: Plastic surgeons are required to be board certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, Cosmetic surgeons do not have official certification and do not have standardized training.

Overall, plastic surgeons have a more comprehensive and specialized training in surgical and non-surgical procedures, and are qualified to perform a wider range of procedures than cosmetic surgeons. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon for any surgical or non-surgical procedure.

Facial Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists and Occuloplastic Surgeons all also have standardized training and must be certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

All other cosmetic providers including family physicians, nurses, RPNs and RNs, nurse practitioners (NPs) have nonstandardized training in cosmetic procedures. There are many weekend training courses and many groups that are proliferating offering nonstandardized training in injectables and cosmetic procedures. It is not uncommon for injectors to take a weekend course and set up an injectables practice with minimal, to no, hands on training. Make sure to ask questions about the training, experience and oversight of your injector.