The benchmark qualification, recognised by the Medical Council of New Zealand(MCNZ), for a trained plastic and cosmetic surgeon in New Zealand and Australia is FRACS (Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons). Trainees undergo a five year postgraduate programme in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Education and Training (SET). The programme is overseen by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and administered by the New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons (NZAPS). Upon completion of their surgical education and training, qualified specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeons become “Fellows” of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).
Sometimes doctors with a Fellowship of the College of Surgeons (of England, Ireland, Scotland or Canada), with evidence of additional training, may be accepted by the New Zealand Medical Council as specialists. The same applies to American doctors who are board-certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
All surgical procedures carry risk, but you can reduce the chance of risk and complication by consulting a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is trained, qualified and accredited to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
