While many people may be familiar with what cosmetic surgery is, some may not realise there is a vast different between a Plastic Surgeon vs Cosmetic Surgeon in Australia and the level of training they have to complete.
In this latest article from Dr Samuel Yang and his team, we elaborate on what is required for both, in the hope we can help patients make a more informed decision when it comes to deciding which specialist – and type of procedure – is right for them.
Below you’ll also learn more about what to expect during the consultation process with Dr Yang.
Who is Dr Samuel Yang?
Dr Samuel Yang is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who trained in Australia. Since graduating from university two decades ago, he has undergone extensive specialist training both in Queensland and at Oxford University in the UK, before setting up his own practice in Brisbane.
What is Plastic Surgery?
“Plastic” is derivedfrom the Greek word “Plastos” which means to reshape or mould.
In all forms of plastic surgery the cosmetic aesthetic aspect of the procedure is always the most important aspect of the procedure. For example, a breast reduction is to improve form and function, but has an important cosmetic component as well.
Who Can Perform Cosmetic Surgery in Australia?
Unfortunately, the term “Cosmetic Surgeon” is not regulated in Australia.
At present, any doctor who has a basic medical degree is able to call themselves a “Cosmetic Surgeon”.
The only qualification for an individual to call themselves a cosmetic surgeon or undertake cosmetic procedures such as breast implants or abdominoplasties is to have general medical registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
This requires a person to have a basic medical degree and complete 1 year of internship in an Australian hospital.
What is Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery is a surgical specialty which involves both reconstructive surgery AND cosmetic surgery.
Who can perform Plastic Surgery in Australia?
Specialist Specialist Plastic Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgeons usually have a minimum of 12 years medical and surgical education with at least 5 of those years being in specialist plastic surgery training supervised and regulated by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS).
Once a qualified medical professional completes this specialist surgical training, they become a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).
The cosmetic side of surgery is only 1 important element of the training which is required to become a plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
In Australia, Specialist Plastic Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgeons are the only accredited medical professionals who are recognised by AHPRA to perform both reconstructive AND cosmetic surgery.
Differences Between Cosmetic Surgeons and Plastic Surgeons
Here is a snapshot of the differences between the two:
- Training
- Expertise
- Medicare and or health fund rebates
- Surgical qualifications
- Recognition by AHPRA
- Specialties
Consultations with Dr Samuel Yang
Dr Samuel Yang is a:
- Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgery
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
- Member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons
Consultations with Dr Yang are tailored to each individual needs and concerns whether they are purely cosmetic or not.
Dr Yang will:
- Carry out an assessment
- Address your concerns and understand the result you’re hoping for
- Develop a bespoke management plan (which can include surgery, further investigation, or non-surgical options)
Once you’ve had a procedure performed by Dr Yang, we will ensure your aftercare is of the highest quality, with everyone in our office always striving to do the best they can. Follow up consultations can be for more than 1 year to ensure long lasting, desirable results are maintained.
Plastic Surgeon vs Cosmetic Surgeon Australia
If you have any further questions about any cosmetic or reconstructive procedures, or would like to book a consultation with Dr Samuel Yang please contact our office on (07) 3257 7950.
Dr Samuel Yang is an experienced plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon based in Brisbane.
A fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and a member of both the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Australian Medical Association, Dr Yang has been practising in both the private and public systems since 2013.
While the Queensland-trained surgeon can help with all plastic surgery needs, he has special interest in abdominoplasty, skin cancer and melanoma, breast surgery, face lifts and blepharoplasty.
Dr Yang aims to help his patients pick the best surgical option based on the desired result, and ensures they are comfortable and informed before making any commitment.
For more information or to book a consultation, please contact our friendly team on (07) 3257 7950 today or enquire online here.
