Hi,

I am new to this site and fairly new to Thailand. Please forgive if information is already posted elsewhere but I didn't see anything about my question.

What is the difference between a plastic surgeon and cosmetic surgeon?

I was involved in an accident a little over a month ago where I now have a scar on my face (stitches required) and some road rash scaring. I'm looking to getting it removed and wanted to find a recommended doctor but not sure if a plastic or cosmetic surgeon would be best. I'm not looking to get wrinkles or spots removed, just my face back to normal.

Also, I am looking for top quality work and price is not an issue.

My family doctor threw out the names of Dr. Putan or Dr. Krit (plastic surgeons). Does anyone have ANY info on them?

Thank you!

i always thought it was the same,just the name change only

I would guess its the same as well. All the major hospitals have plastic surgeons available.One is recommended on the pinned topic at the top of this page.

I'm sure a Google search will find many more in CM.

Pretty sure it is one and the same thing.

Just had a relative have major plastic surgery (tissue transfer) down country and the surgeon also has a cosmetic surgery clinic in the same town. Turned into 3 ops before we moved him to another hospital for a 4th. Be very careful. I was not impressed and would only go where you have a reliable recommendation, although your needs seem much less complicated.

I had plastic surgery in the west to excise a deepish melanoma-simple and effective but done by an excellent surgeon.

Best of luck-and if you find someone to get it done,it may help some of us if you can take the time to post your thoughts on the outcome.

Oh, one other thought. I believe that Sheryl who moderates the Health Forum on TV ( I think) was a nurse here for 30 years and knows her way around issues like this. Maybe give that a go to.

Your plastic surgeon is way way more skilled and professional.

He is the guy in the hospital who will do your skin grafts, face reconstruction and tissue repairs after your near fatal accidents.

Cosmetic is just that...surface enhancements, your typical botox, and boob jobs, tummy tucks.

I don't think cosmetic surgery if regulated so you get all and sundry setting up cowboy operations everywhere and although there are many excellent cosmetic surgeons sadly the cowboys are giving this cosmopolitan profession a bad name.

unless you feel you need surgery and it if serious then I suggest you seek out a local cosmetic clinic.

And finally, something I read the other day, when looking for any cosmetic procedure DO NOT be swayed by the buy now get 50% off gimmicks. It is your health at stake and decisions should not be rushed.

In the west there's an enormous difference. I would imagine it depends on the professional restirctions that apply in different countries. I can only speak for Australia but, as far as I know, a 'Plastic' is the specific medical specialist that deals with reconstructions..facial trauma and cosmetic work etc (if they choose to do it). They are controlled by their specialist boards as would a gastroenterologist or an orthopedic surgeon be etc.

A 'Cosmetic' is anyone doctor who does surgery.... That's how I read it anyway...