Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon?

A dermatologist and a plastic surgeon may both provide some cosmetic treatments, but their specialties are not interchangeable. The right starting point depends on the concern: skin disease, a skin lesion, facial volume, loose tissue, or a surgical change.

What does a dermatologist treat?

Dermatologists evaluate and treat conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. Some also focus on cosmetic treatments or skin surgery. The American Academy of Dermatology explains the specialty and board certification. A changing lesion or unexplained rash needs an appropriate medical evaluation, not simply a cosmetic treatment choice.

What does a plastic surgeon treat?

Plastic surgery includes reconstructive and cosmetic care across several parts of the body. It can involve skin, fat, deeper tissue, and structural changes. A surgeon's current practice may focus on particular procedures, so check the training and experience relevant to your specific goal.

Where can the specialties overlap?

Injectables and some skin procedures may be performed by clinicians from different backgrounds. Compare the individual clinician's qualifications, anatomy knowledge, product or device experience, and complication plan. A specialty name alone does not answer those questions.

Choose for the problem you need solved

Ask what diagnosis or tissue change explains your concern, which options could help, and when referral to another specialist would be useful. For surgery, also review the setting, anesthesia, recovery, and follow-up. Read our surgeon-selection guide for a practical consultation checklist.

Dr. Emily Borsting is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. A consultation can determine whether your concern fits her practice or would be better assessed in another specialty.