Public Perception of Plastic Surgery in Saudi Arabia

Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2019 Mar 14;7(3):e2143. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000002143. eCollection 2019 Mar.

Abstract

Background: The general public perceives plastic surgeons as cosmetic surgeons. This study aimed to assess the general public's awareness of the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A short, anonymous, web-based survey was distributed to the public using SurveyMonkey as a platform. Participants were asked to choose the surgeon for managing 16 case scenarios, 11 of which were commonly managed by plastic surgeons.

Results: In total, 2,116 participants completed the survey. The participants correctly chose plastic surgery as the specialty for managing 3 of the 11 listed plastic surgery case scenarios.

Conclusion: More efforts are needed from plastic surgeons and media to educate the public about the scope of plastic and reconstructive surgery.