Choosing Your Surgeon
What is a 'Fully Qualified' Plastic Surgeon?
A fully qualified plastic surgeon is a specialist recognised by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). These are the peak national bodies that govern the training and practice of plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery in Australia.
All plastic surgeons at Eastern Plastic Surgery have undergone a minimum of 10 years of training since gaining their university medical degree. These include selection into Specialist training, followed by years of rigorous advanced surgical training and examinations accredited by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.
In addition, all of our surgeons have undertaken further fellowship training in sub-specialist areas of plastic surgery. These areas includes:
- Cosmetic and microsurgery (Dr Frank Lin and Dr Richard Ross)
- Microsurgery and burns (Dr Tam Quinn)
- Cosmetic, microsurgery and hand (Dr Paul Di Giovine)
Specialist Surgeons are entitled to have “FRACS” after their name, denoting their Fellowship within the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.
Dr Frank Lin
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Dr Paul Di Giovine
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Dr Tam Quinn
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Dr Richard Ross
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In Australia, look for these following affiliations as a sign that your surgeon is in fact a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
What is the Difference Between a Specialist Plastic Surgeon and a 'Cosmetic Surgeon'?
In Australia, like many other countries around the world, certain cosmetic procedures can legally be performed by doctors who have not undergone the rigorous training and met the requirements of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
They may be called “cosmetic surgeons” and may have their own affiliations, but they are not recognized by peak professional bodies such as RACS and ASPS, and are therefore not entitled to use “FRACS”.
Further, they are not entitled to recognition by Australian Health Practitioners Registration Agency (AHPRA) as a “Specialist Surgeon”, or a “Specialist Plastic Surgeon”.
A current list of recognized medical and surgical specialties is available on the AHPRA website. https://www.ahpra.gov.au/
Why is it Important to Choose a Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Firstly, the difference is in the training.
Secondly, and more importantly, the reason pertains to surgical safety, and the ability to provide comprehensive care, even in the event of a surgical complication.
Specialist Plastic Surgeons are entitled to:
- Admitting rights in major public hospitals
- Admitting rights in major private hospitals
- Recognition by AHPRA and Medicare as Specialists, with Specialist Provider number.
- Recognition by Private Health Insurers (eg. Medibank Private, BUPA, etc).
These are important because the ultimate goal in ANY surgery or invasive procedure, is your SAFETY. And only a fully qualified Specialist can provide a full and comprehensive service in the event of problems that may require admission to hospital.
What Questions Should I Ask my Surgeon Before Committing to Surgery?
We recommend asking your surgeon these questions before committing to a surgery.
- Are you recognized by the RACS or AHPRA a Specialist Plastic Surgeon?
- Do you have admitting rights in a public or private hospital if I have a complication that requires hospitalization?
- Do you specialize in the surgery you are recommending for me?
- How many of these operations have you performed?
Ready to Discuss Your Options?
Contact our team today to arrange a comprehensive consultation where we’ll discuss your needs, answer your questions, and create a tailored treatment plan. Connect with our expert surgeons to discuss your aesthetic goals in a welcoming environment where your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our priorities.
