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Dermatologists preferred for cutaneous, surgical cosmetic procedures

In a study to assess the opinion of the general public, dermatologists were chosen as the preferred provider type to address certain cutaneous surgery and cosmetic procedures.

Researchers administered an internet-based survey to 354 adults in the lay public. Participants were asked to choose the type of health care provider — dermatologist, plastic surgeon, primary care physician, general surgeon or nurse practitioner/physician’s assistant — they would prefer to perform various cutaneous cosmetic and surgical procedures.

Survey results showed dermatologists were the most preferable provider to biopsy and evaluate worrisome lesions on the face (69.8%), to perform skin cancer surgery on a patient’s back (73.4%), perform skin cancer surgery on the face (62.7%) and perform laser procedures (56.3%).

Participants identified dermatologists and plastic surgeons as the most preferred for administration of filler injections (44.6% vs. 47.3%, respectively). However, plastic surgeons were preferred for procedures such as botulinum toxin injections (50.6%), liposuction (74.4%) and face-lift surgery (96.1%), the researchers found.

Disclosure: The authors have no relevant financial disclosures.