Melbourne has a large number of board-certified plastic surgeons across the CBD, inner suburbs, and surrounding areas, offering procedures ranging from breast augmentation and rhinoplasty to reconstructive surgery and body contouring. Most practise from private rooms in Toorak, Hawthorn, East Melbourne, or the CBD, with surgeries performed at private hospitals including Epworth, Cabrini, and St Vincent’s Private.
What to Look for in a Melbourne Plastic Surgeon
The most important credential to check is Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) with a specialisation in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. This is the gold standard qualification in Australia and confirms the surgeon has completed accredited specialist training. Some surgeons also hold Fellowship of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), which indicates a focus on cosmetic procedures specifically.
You can verify any surgeon’s credentials through the Medical Board of Australia’s public register at ahpra.gov.au. A consultation should include a full medical history review, discussion of risks, and a realistic outline of expected outcomes. Be cautious of any practice that pushes same-day decisions or quotes prices before assessing your individual circumstances.
Well-Known Plastic Surgeons Practising in Melbourne
Several FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons have long-established practices in Melbourne. Dr Mark Ashton practises from Hawthorn and is known for breast and body procedures. Dr Craig Rubinstein operates from Malvern and has a strong focus on breast surgery. Dr Geoff Barnett sees patients in East Melbourne with a broad scope including face and body work. Dr Damien Grinsell is based at St Vincent’s and has a dual focus on reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.
This is not an exhaustive list. Melbourne’s medical precinct around Spring Street and East Melbourne also includes group practices such as The Plastic Surgery Group and Centre for Plastic Surgery, where multiple specialists consult under one roof.
Costs and Medicare Considerations
Plastic surgery costs in Melbourne vary considerably depending on the procedure, surgeon, anaesthetist fees, and hospital costs. A rhinoplasty typically ranges from $12,000 to $20,000 all-inclusive. Breast augmentation commonly falls between $10,000 and $18,000. Reconstructive procedures related to a medical condition, such as post-mastectomy reconstruction or skin cancer excision, may attract a Medicare rebate and private health insurance cover.
Purely cosmetic procedures are not covered by Medicare. Always request an itemised quote covering the surgical fee, anaesthetic, and hospital facility costs before committing to anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon in Melbourne?
A plastic surgeon holding FRACS (Plast) has completed a minimum of 12 years of medical and specialist surgical training. A cosmetic surgeon may be a doctor from another specialty (such as general practice) who has undertaken additional cosmetic training but does not hold a surgical fellowship. Both can legally perform cosmetic procedures in Australia, so checking qualifications directly is essential.
How do I book a consultation with a plastic surgeon in Melbourne?
Most plastic surgeons in Melbourne require a GP referral, particularly if you intend to claim any Medicare rebate. Even for purely cosmetic work, a referral is standard practice and helps ensure your medical history is communicated to the surgeon before your first appointment.
Are plastic surgery results permanent?
Results vary by procedure. Structural changes from rhinoplasty or breast implants are long-lasting, though implants may require replacement after 10 to 20 years. Body contouring results can change with significant weight fluctuation. Your surgeon should give you a realistic timeframe specific to your procedure during the consultation.
