Today, the term “cosmetic surgeon” is used widely. Not all “cosmetic surgeons” are the same. Many non-surgeons or those practitioners practicing outside their scope of practice have begun offering cosmetic procedures, sometimes after only brief courses or weekend trainings. This is far outside the scope of their training.
Who May Call Themselves a Plastic Surgeon?
It is important for patients to understand: only facial plastic surgeons and general plastic surgeons are fully trained and credentialed to use the title “plastic surgeon.”
• Facial plastic surgeons complete 5 years of residency in the highly competitive field of Head and Neck Surgery, followed by an extremely competitive 1 year fellowship focused solely on facial plastic surgery.
• General plastic surgeons complete a 6 year residency (most commonly) encompassing training that spans plastic surgery of the body, breast, and face.
Everyone else, regardless of their specialty, may only use the title “cosmetic surgeon.” Their training is not equivalent and does not carry the same oversight or standards.
Fellowship Training: Unparalleled Specialization
Facial plastic surgery fellowship is one of the most competitive subspecialties in all of medicine. Only a small number of surgeons nationwide are accepted each year. This training provides unmatched expertise in facial anatomy, function, and aesthetics. Unlike general plastic surgeons, whose training is divided among body, breast, and face, facial plastic surgeons dedicate their careers exclusively to the face and neck.
Board Standards: True Rigor vs. Cosmetic Shortcuts
The American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) sets the gold standard. Candidates must complete years of surgical training, demonstrate extensive case experience, and pass rigorous written and oral examinations. By contrast, many “cosmetic” boards require little more than minimal coursework and far less surgical experience, leaving patients exposed to unnecessary risks.
Why It Matters for Patients
Facial plastic surgeons’ singular focus on the face and neck allows for:
• Specialized Expertise: Training and surgical practice devoted only to the face.
• Higher Standards: Fellowship training and demanding board examinations.
• Patient Safety: Procedures performed within the scope of rigorous surgical training.
• Natural, Balanced Outcomes: Enhancements that look refreshed, not artificial.
The Bottom Line
When choosing a surgeon, credentials matter. Only facial plastic surgeons and general plastic surgeons are truly qualified to use the title “plastic surgeon.” Providers practicing outside that scope, no matter what they call themselves, cannot match the training, safety standards, or results of a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon.
