Most times when patients want a cosmetic procedure, they have a lot of questions. One of the questions they have is whether to work with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon.
Who is a dermatologist? A dermatologist is a medical specialist who treats people with problems affecting the skin, hair and nails. Some of these common conditions are skin cancer, acne, rashes, eczema, psoriasis etc
A cosmetic dermatologist has trained in skin care. Then have gone for special training that earned them certifications that allow them to perform cosmetic procedures. Most cosmetic dermatologists only perform very simple procedures that improve the appearance of a patient’s skin. They do not perform invasive surgeries such as rhinoplasties. They may offer fillers and other cosmetic procedures such as skin resurfacing or skin rejuvenation, Others that cosmetic dermatologists perform are procedures that include using ultrasound to lift the skin or having a hair removed with lasers, or they perform what is called a mini-facelift.
Plastic surgeons specialize in cosmetic surgery. He deals with the reconstruction, repair or replacement of parts of the body by the transfer of tissues to improve their appearance.
Dermatologist vs plastic surgeon
The other difference between a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon is the knowledge in anatomy, aesthetics and skills.
Anatomy – Plastic surgeons have a good understanding of facial anatomy and can perform a wide range of cosmetic surgery procedures that will enhance your appearance. Plastic surgeons understand how various body parts, including bones and muscles, may affect the way your face looks. They have excellent training in handling different types of facial surgery such as scar removal to correct the appearance of deep scars. While dermatologists are experts in conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails.
Aesthetics- Plastic surgeons are professionally trained in aesthetic procedures. They know how to get the best results from a wide range of treatments, from a facelift to non-surgical alternatives such as injectables or fillers. They are experts in performing a wide variety of invasive and non-invasive procedures to achieve the best possible results for their patients.
Skills- Plastic surgeons are highly skilled in invasive and non-invasive procedures. They are well trained to perform advanced surgical procedures. Dermatologists mainly focus on non-invasive procedures.
Responsibility of dermatologist vs plastic surgeon
A dermatologist
- Is responsible for Diagnosing and treating skins, hair and nails conditions such dandruff, psoriasis, acne, eczema etc
- Executing treatment plans and review progress of their patients
- They advise on treatment and Prescribe medication to patients to help them improve their appearance and health
- Updating their patients on the latest topical and surgical skincare treatments
- Utilizing advanced diagnostic tools, such as dermoscopes, to get a close look at cancerous or inflammatory lesions in the skin.
- Some conduct non-invasive surgical procedures
A plastic surgeon
- Asses the patients’ health to find out if they are a good candidate for the procedure
- Communicate with the patients about the risk associated with the procedure and everything else they need to know.
- Perform procedures to reconstruct and other cosmetic and corrective medical treatments
- Execute the most advanced techniques in plastic surgery.
- Follow-up with patients and provide them with the proper medical care.
- Perform several non-surgical treatments
Training for Dermatology vs Plastic Surgery
Both plastic and dermatologists have different types of training. Plastic surgeons operate on patients and perform surgery while a dermatologist works in a clinical setting. Dermatologists attend college for four years, then undergo four years in medical school. They then have to spend over three years in dermatology school. Some specialize in cosmetic dermatology, which involves training in cosmetic procedures. While a plastic surgeon trains for 4-year medical school accredited by the AAMC, then a 6-year residency program in Plastic Surgery accredited by the ACGME.
A plastic surgeon and a dermatologist may have the same goal of changing your appearance to the better but the results may be different. Whether to go to a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon depends on what you want. For example, if your problem is a deep scar, it is highly advisable you see a plastic surgeon if your concern is acne scar then you should see a dermatologist.
It is highly advisable you choose a board-certified plastic surgeon. Board certified plastic surgeons have gone through the necessary training and therefore are qualified to perform cosmetic procedures. A plastic surgeon should be able to prove his credentials. Some show their credentials on their websites.
Seek a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist who is experienced. A plastic surgeon must have performed the procedure you need severally.
When a dermatology doctor suggests that patients seek more extensive care, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon is the more appropriate source. Patients should consider going to a plastic surgeon for any invasive or non-invasive procedures, while a dermatologist should be reserved for routine visits and routine monitoring to better serve your body.