Dermatologist vs. Plastic Surgeon: Which Is Better?

At Capizzi MD, we encounter a lot of patients seeking Charlotte dermatology options for mole removal. While dermatology and plastic surgery are different career paths, they are oriented towards similar goals and overlap in many areas.

A dermatologist is trained to focus on treating and improving the health and appearance of the skin using non-invasive or minimally invasive methods. For widespread skincare concerns, annual mole assessments, or skin cancer needs, a dermatologist is going to be a great person to have on your care team.

Differences Between Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists

If you are considering a cosmetic procedure, you may be wondering whether you should turn to a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. The main differences between the two areas of specialization lie in their understanding of anatomy, skills, and aesthetics.

• Anatomy: Due to extensive fellowship training and rigorous board-certification processes. Plastic surgeons have a deep understanding of facial anatomy that can only be attained through performing surgery on that region of the body. They know how various structural features healing together may affect your appearance. They know how skin ages and how scars mature. For these reasons, they are a great choice for facial procedures ranging from mole removals to improving the appearance of deep scars.
• Aesthetics: A plastic surgeon is trained specifically on surgical procedures to alter the body’s appearance and function. In Charlotte, dermatologists often refer mole removals or lesion removals to plastic surgeons because greater care can be taken in the aesthetic outcome of the procedure. They are also knowledgeable about how to hide an unavoidable scar within the natural contours of your face or body.
• Skills: Plastic surgeons have more options available at their fingertips to deliver results, with extensive training on all treatment options. These options can be non-invasive, such as: laser treatments, BroadBand light treatments, medical-grade skincare products, or radiofrequency treatments. Or, these options can be surgical in nature, and with years of specific training on surgical procedures such as facelift, necklift, browlift, blepharoplasty, and rhinoplasty, plastic surgeons are a great option for your needs.

Why Choose One Over the Other?

Both dermatology and plastic surgery are fields that play crucial roles in enhancing skin health and appearance. While they are both qualified medical professionals, they do have distinct areas of expertise. Choosing between them depends on your specific needs and goals. Here are some reasons why you might choose a plastic surgeon over a dermatologist:

1. Surgical expertise: Plastic surgeons undergo extensive training in surgical techniques, making them better equipped to handle complex procedures requiring precise manipulation of tissues and structures. This expertise is crucial for achieving desired aesthetic outcomes and minimizing complications.
2. Wider range of surgical options: Plastic surgeons offer a broader spectrum of surgical procedures for various body areas, including facelifts, rhinoplasties, breast augmentation/reduction, liposuction, and body contouring. Dermatologists typically perform a more limited range of surgical procedures, often focused on smaller areas or skin concerns.
3. Advanced understanding of anatomy: Plastic surgeons have a deeper understanding of facial and body anatomy, allowing them to create natural-looking, balanced results while considering underlying structures and functionality. This expertise is particularly important for complex procedures involving multiple areas or significant alterations.
4. Focus on aesthetics: While dermatologists offer some cosmetic procedures, plastic surgeons have a stronger emphasis on achieving aesthetically pleasing outcomes. Their training incorporates principles of facial harmony, proportion, and balance, allowing them to tailor procedures to individual features and desires.

Ultimately, your Charlotte dermatology needs will help guide your choice towards the best provider for you. If you’re considering mole removal or facial procedures, consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon might be the most suitable option. However, if your concerns are primarily related to skin health, or you prefer non-invasive options, a dermatologist may be a better choice. If you have any questions about treatments or procedures offered by Capizzi MD, please give our office a call at 704-655-8988 to speak to a member of our Patient Care Team or book an appointment.