Plastic surgeons in Hobart
A plastic surgeon is a surgeon who specialises in repairing and reconstructing the skin and body. They remove skin cancers, repair injuries and rebuild areas after cancer surgery. Some also do hand surgery and cosmetic surgery.
Soonest appointments in Hobart
Common reasons to see a plastic surgeon
- Skin cancer removal, including on the face
- Breast reconstruction after cancer
- Breast reduction
- Hand injuries and carpal tunnel
- Scars and burns
- Excess skin after major weight loss
- Cleft lip and palate
- Wounds that are slow to heal
What happens at the first appointment
- The plastic surgeon asks about your concern, health history and medicines
- They examine the area and may take photos for your record
- They explain the options, including whether surgery is needed
- They talk about risks, recovery time and likely results
- If you go ahead, you receive a written quote and information about next steps
Do I need a referral?
You need a referral, usually from your GP, to claim a Medicare rebate when you see a plastic surgeon. In Australia, a GP referral is also required before seeing a surgeon about cosmetic surgery, and public hospitals offer reconstructive surgery through GP referral.
Questions to ask
- Is surgery the best option, or are there alternatives?
- What are the risks, and what will the scar look like?
- How long will recovery take?
- What will it cost, and what will Medicare and my health fund cover?
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see a plastic surgeon?
Yes. To claim a Medicare rebate you need a referral, usually from your GP. A referral is also required in Australia before a consultation for cosmetic surgery.
Will Medicare cover my surgery?
Medicare and private health insurance can help with reconstructive surgery that has a medical reason, such as skin cancer or injury repair. Purely cosmetic surgery is not covered. Ask for a written quote.
When is it urgent?
Go to an emergency department for a deep cut, a hand injury with numbness or loss of movement, or a serious burn. Call 000 for heavy bleeding that will not stop or a large burn.
Plastic surgery in other cities
General information only, not medical advice. Everyone's situation is different, so check with your GP or the provider. In an emergency call 000.