Difference Between a Consultant and an Associate Plastic Surgeon?

Question

Im looking for a good surgeon for rhinoplasty but I am not in America and i dont know how to find one who is fully qualified. What is the difference between a consultant plastic surgeon and an associate plastic surgeon?

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

Hi malteser,

	Most surgeons in these forums are US physicians. The categories Associate and Consultant are used in the British Medical System. Both categories can work independently, but it appears that Associate category may have less administrative burden. See the link below for more information. Best of luck.

	Dr. Chaboki

Mohsen Tavoussi, MD, DO · Answer

Consultant physician in the British system is a physician who has finished a number of years training and practicing particular specialty and is able to practice independently. That is equivalent to a residency trained physician in the U.S. For further info. please contact British Medical Council.

Catherine Huang-Begovic, MD, FACS · Answer

In general, a consultant is not a doctor, but usually a member of the medical staff with enough experience to give you some information about a particular procedure and give a general assessment.  An associate plastic surgeon is a trained plastic surgeon.  Sometimes plastic surgeons work together or share an office.  If you see a practice or physician you like and their is any confusing terminology, I'd recommend you contact the office and ask. I'm sure they'd be happy to explain and answer any questions you may have.

	Dr. Cat Begovic M.D.

Michelle R. Yagoda, MD · Answer

While terminolgy may be confusing in any country, one thing is certain.  The best rhinoplasty surgeon is the one with the best training and the most experience.  A facial plastic surgeon is one who is trained in Otolaryngology (medical and surgical treatment of the ears, NOSE and throat) and Facial Plastic Surgery.  Surgery that is done to change the outside appearance of the nose may inadvertantly or necessariy change the inside function of the nose.  A facial plastic surgeon has expertise in both.

	Best of luck in your decision.

	Dr. Michelle Yagoda,

	NYC Facial Plastic Surgeon and Otolaryngologist

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The terms you are referring to I believe are terms used in the British System.  In the US you want a board certified plastic surgeon that you can find in the ASPS or ASAPS websites.

Armen Vartany, MD, FACS · Answer

Consultant and Associate are titles used in the UK. In the US what you should look for is a Plastic Surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and who specializes in rhinoplsty.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

I was an overseas Consultant in Plastic Surgery in the UK for about 8 years, while practicing Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery here in Beverly Hills.  Consultants have acheived a higher level of training and experience along with board certification in a specialty.  It's a bit different system than here in the US.

	Experience in Rhinoplasty is something that you will have to ascertain on a surgeon by surgeon basis just like here in the US.  Just because a particular plastic and cosmetic surgeon is a member of a specific board, does not guarantee experience in any one procedure like Rhinoplasty.  Have several consultations with surgeons of good reputation and go from there.

Difference Between a Consultant and an Associate Plastic Surgeon?

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