Perceptions and misconceptions of the plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

Little is known about professional perceptions of plastic and reconstructive surgery. In an era of managed health care and social reform, public perception, or misconception, may ultimately have a significant impact on this specialty. A survey was conducted to provide some initial evidence for the scope and scale of the misconceptions. Three populations were surveyed for this study: consecutive patients visiting a primary-care facility, medical students, and primary-care physicians. The survey addressed various aspects of plastic surgery-reconstruction, hand, craniofacial, and aesthetic surgery. One thousand one hundred twenty-one individuals of various ages, education levels, and ethnic backgrounds participated in this study. Our data demonstrate that public perception of the plastic and reconstructive surgeon is limited and grossly underestimates this specialty. Although the plastic surgeon is associated with reconstructive surgery, they are not necessarily identified as primary surgeons for procedures fundamental to this specialty. Furthermore, a significant number of respondents would prefer a cosmetic surgeon for aesthetic procedures. We believe that it is crucial that the public, physicians, and medical establishments (e.g., insurance companies, hospital administrations) be educated on the essence of plastic and reconstructive surgery.