If you’ve been researching different surgeons for a cosmetic surgery procedure, you’ve likely come across the term FRACS. But what does FRACS stand for?
FRACS stands for “Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons”. This is a qualification that denotes specialist surgeons in Australia and New Zealand who have undergone additional training (beyond medical school qualifications and general registration as a surgeon).
This organisation is the only one in Australia that provides credentialed training for surgeons (and is recognised by AMC, Medicare, Health Funds and Private Hospitals). So, if your surgeon has the letters FRACS after their name this indicates they have undergone the rigorous selection process, training and examination process of the College of Surgeons.
Becoming Accredited: Criteria a FRACs surgeon Must Meet
FRACS surgeons must meet strict criteria to become accredited as FRACs and only FRACs surgeons are accredited to perform cosmetic plastic surgery.
In Australia, Specialist Plastic Surgeons have studied specialist surgery for at least five years on top of their medical education (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery).
The FRACS qualification demonstrates that your surgeon is experienced and has the required qualifications to perform specialist cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures. FRACS surgeons also have access to the most up-to-date treatments, techniques and technologies within their field.
Why FRACs Qualification Matters
At the date of writing, the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons notes that: ‘currently in Australia, it is legal for any doctor with a basic medical degree to perform surgery’.
This means that any Doctor, who has obtained their Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and NOT undergone specialist training, can perform Cosmetic Surgery.
Untrained doctors or “Cosmetic Surgeons” can cause a suite of problems, including:
- Poor surgical results that are difficult to repair or fix
- Potential infection and complications after the procedure
- Longer recovery times due to poorly performed surgery.
Please be cautious when researching any cosmetic surgeon and make sure to look for FRACS after their name.
Why Choose a FRACs Surgeon
A FRAC’s qualified surgeon is best qualified to ensure your safety and get the results you desire. By choosing a FRACS-qualified surgeon for your procedure, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible care and expertise. This qualification acts as an assurance that your surgeon has met the highest professional surgical standards and is qualified to perform cosmetic procedures.
How to Find an Experienced FRACs Surgeon
When researching different surgeons for your procedure, here are some tips to ensure you choose a qualified and experienced surgeon.
- Ask Them About Their Qualifications. Any surgeon should be happy to discuss this with you.
- Check Your Surgeon’s Registration. You can access details of your surgeon’s registration on the Medical Board of Australia. You can check FRACs membership here Medical Surgeon Check link.
- Trust Your Instincts. You’re the only person that can make the right decision. If you feel at ease in your consultation and trust your surgeon – you’re ready to make an informed decision.
Other Considerations When Choosing a Surgeon
Before you choose your surgeon, you should always do your research. To make a well-informed decision, we recommend you do the following.
- Read Patient Reviews. Other patient reviews and testimonials will give you a good understanding of the care given and the results obtained by the surgeon.
- Ask Your Friends and Family About Their Surgeon. Word-of-mouth referrals are a great way to find you an expert in the field.
- Book a Consult. This gives you a chance to meet your favourite surgeons and ask any questions you may have. For example, “How often have you performed this surgery?”, “Where do you perform this surgery?” and, “What complications have you encountered?”
Checking for FRACs qualification and using these tips will help you make the right decision when it comes to your plastic surgery procedure.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plast) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over thirty years of experience performing Breast, Body, Face and Nose surgery. Dr Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with 30+ years of experience. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are absolutely NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons in our clinic.
As a highly esteemed plastic surgeon, Dr Mark is committed to achieving the best possible results for all his breast, body, face and nose patients, both men and women.
