Representation of plastic and cosmetic surgeons in British newspapers

The aim of this study was to investigate the use of the terms "plastic surgeon" or "cosmetic surgeon" in British newspapers.

Based on readership volume, the top eight British newspapers were searched for articles written between 09/2016-09/2021 for their use of keywords "plastic surgeon" OR "cosmetic surgeon". The names of the doctors referenced were searched in the GMC register to determine their speciality registration.

A total of 2326 articles were read. 2107 (91%) articles were excluded as they did not refer to a specifically named doctor. Of the 219 articles remaining, 136 referenced "plastic surgeons". 22 (16%) doctors referred to as "plastic surgeons" were not on the GMC speciality register for plastic surgery. 83 articles made reference to "cosmetic surgeons". 39 (47%) were on the plastic surgery register but 11 (13%) were on other higher surgical registers [ENT (2) and ophthalmology (9)]. 18 (22%) cosmetic surgeons were registered as GPs and 15 (18%) were not on any speciality register.

There is mis-representation of individuals performing cosmetic procedures as plastic surgeons regardless of their speciality or training. This prevents public awareness of the true scope of plastic and reconstructive surgery as a speciality in its own right.