Would You Trust Your Surgery to Any Doctor?
The field of cosmetic procedures has expanded dramatically, but not all practitioners have the same level of training and expertise. As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon and Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), Dr. Turner has completed rigorous surgical training under Australia’s highest surgical authority.
Understanding Surgical Qualifications in Australia
In Australia, the title “Specialist Plastic Surgeon” has a specific meaning that patients should be aware of:
Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS)
- Completed a medical degree (6+ years)
- Completed basic surgical training (2+ years)
- Completed advanced specialist surgical training in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (5+ years)
- Passed rigorous examinations by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
- Recognized by the Australian Medical Board as a specialist
- Eligible for membership in the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS)
Understanding the New Legislation on Surgical Titles
Under the new legislation (passed September 2023), a medical practitioner can now only use the title of ‘surgeon’ if they are registered in a recognized surgical specialty. The title ‘cosmetic surgeon’ is no longer permitted for use by practitioners who are not registered specialists with appropriate surgical qualifications.
What this means for practitioners without FRACS qualification:
- They cannot use the protected title ‘surgeon’ or ‘cosmetic surgeon’
- They may have completed a medical degree but lack specialist surgical training
- They are not recognized as surgical specialists by the Australian Medical Board
- They are not eligible for membership in ASPS or ASAPS based on surgical credentials
- Using the protected title without proper qualifications is now a criminal offense with penalties including fines up to $60,000 or three years imprisonment
Why Choose a FRACS Qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon?
1. Comprehensive Training and Education
Dr. Scott J Turner, like all Specialist Plastic Surgeons, has undergone extensive training, including:
- 6+ years of medical school
- 2+ years of general surgical experience
- 5+ years of specialized plastic surgery training
- Regular continuing medical education
This comprehensive education provides an in-depth understanding of anatomy, wound healing principles, and surgical techniques that can’t be acquired through weekend courses or short training programs.
2. Hospital Operating Privileges
Specialist Plastic Surgeons have admitting and operating privileges at accredited hospitals and day surgeries. This means:
- Access to comprehensive emergency facilities if needed
- Surgery performed in facilities meeting rigorous standards
- Team-based care with qualified anaesthetists and nursing staff
3. Focus on Patient Safety
Patient safety is paramount in plastic surgery. Specialist Plastic Surgeons like Dr. Turner:
- Have extensive training in managing surgical complications
- Understand proper patient selection and risk assessment
- Maintain high standards for surgical facilities
- Follow evidence-based practices for optimal outcomes
4. Comprehensive Knowledge Base
Plastic surgery requires a thorough understanding of both reconstructive and aesthetic principles. Specialist Plastic Surgeons have:
- Expertise in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures
- A broad range of surgical techniques for complex problems
- Experience with innovations in the field
- Training in both form and function
5. Recognition by Professional Bodies
Dr. Turner’s FRACS qualification indicates recognition by:
- The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)—the only organization recognized by the Australian Medical Council to train surgeons
- The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- The Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS)
A Word of Warning About Surgical Titles
In Australia, legislation passed in September 2023 now protects the title ‘surgeon’ under national law. This means that a medical practitioner can only legally use the title of ‘surgeon’ (including ‘cosmetic surgeon’) if they are registered and have completed training in a recognized specialty.
For patients seeking plastic surgery, this legislative change provides important protection by making it easier to identify properly qualified surgeons. When researching potential surgeons, you should:
- Verify that your surgeon is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic Surgery
- Ask about specific training and experience in the procedure you’re considering
- Request to see before and after photos of previous patients
- Inquire about hospital admitting privileges
Verifying Your Surgeon’s Credentials
Before booking any consultation for plastic surgery:
- Check that your surgeon is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic Surgery
- Ask detailed questions about training and experience in your specific procedure
- Request to see before and after photos of previous patients
- Confirm which hospital the surgeon has operating privileges at
Remember: Your choice of surgeon is a decision that will affect you for years to come. Choose a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with FRACS credentials for your safety and peace of mind.
