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Types of Doctors Who Perform Cosmetic Surgery

The types of doctors who most commonly perform cosmetic surgery include:

  • Plastic and reconstructive surgeons. These doctors are board-certified specialists in plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery and have multiple years of training. All members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons are board-certified in plastic surgery.
  • Otorhinolaryngologists. Otorhinolaryngologists are ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists. Doctors who have additional training in plastic surgery of the head and neck may belong to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery or the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.

Any licensed medical doctor can legally perform cosmetic surgery, but the levels of training and experience in cosmetic surgery vary widely. Some procedures are less complicated and require less training to learn and practice safely. Consult the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, or the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery for a list of doctors in your area who have been trained in and are qualified to perform cosmetic surgery.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Keith A. Denkler, MD - Plastic Surgery
Last Revised August 4, 2010

Last Revised: August 4, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Keith A. Denkler, MD - Plastic Surgery

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