Purpose

Amongst doctors, the title ‘surgeon’ carries expectations of specialist training and professional regulation. Its use by non-surgically trained cosmetic practitioners has raised concerns regarding patient understanding and safety. This study evaluates perceptions of the term among doctors and the public in the United Kingdom.

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Methods

Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted: one of General Medical Council (GMC) registered doctors (n=43) and one of members of the public (n=44). Questions assessed understanding of the term ‘surgeon’, expectations of qualifications, perceptions of use in cosmetic practice, and views on regulation, as issued by bodies such as the UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA). Responses were analysed descriptively.

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Results

Among the public, 92% defined a surgeon as a doctor with recognised specialist training, and 100% expected formal postgraduate qualifications. Most respondents (92%) would feel misled if the title were used without such credentials, and 96% supported legal restriction of the term. Among doctors, 43% believed the title ‘surgeon’ should be restricted to consultants on the specialist register, while 63% felt its use in aesthetic practice is misleading. Over 90% of general members of the pubic believe a “surgeon” is a formally trained specialist who has completed postgraduate exams, and around 91% would feel misled by misuse of the title.

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Conclusion

Both doctors and the public associate the title ‘surgeon’ with high levels of training and regulation. There is strong consensus that its misuse in non-surgical cosmetic practice is misleading and supports the need for adherence to existing regulation to protect patients and maintain professional integrity.

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Additional Authors

First name	Last name	Base Hospital / Institution
Aaminah	Haq	The Clinic Holland Park
Richard	Scawn	The Clinic Holland Park
Jennifer	Doyle	The Clinic Holland Park

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