Plastic surgeon or dermatologist, which is better?

Question

what are the pros and cons of being a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon?

in your perspective which one is better?

i know plastic surgeons make better money than dermatologists, but they get sued and pay a shildload of taxes/expenses.

please answer =]

Answer 1

It depends on what you need to get done.  If you have problems with acne or a changing mole I would see a dermatolgist.  If you have a large laceration or burn I would see a plastic surgeon.

Answer 2

you should never get a job for the money, especially if its something you are going to do the rest of your life.... you need to do something you enjoy, otherwise you will be miserbale!

Answer 3

There are so many differences, it would be hard to list them all.  

Dermatologists are getting more into the cosmetic side of treatments since that's where the money is, but I feel are not nearly as well trained in this as plastic surgeons in many areas. Weekend courses in liposuction is not adequate training, in my opinion.  

Derm's see patients in their office ,and do mostly minimal procedures-laser treatments,  injections, etc.

Plastic surgeons are actually trained as a surgeon. This invovles performing surgery, being in the hospital more, seeing patients there, taking some call, etc.

Derm's would never really take call, not really have any emergencies.

Derm's are trained to treat topical, mostly skin related disorders; skin cancers, rashes, etc, but can concentrate on what area they choose. Many do perform minor surgery; I've never seen one do a major surgery. If you like surgery, then plastics is more for you. Much, much more money there, but more responsibility also.

Plastic surgeons today are often specializing in certain body areas, such as b*****s only, or facial surgery, liposuction, or reconstructive surgery such as scars, post-injury surgeries, etc.

From my experience, people are happier when seeing a plastic surgeon that most other types of Drs. Consider who's coming to see you; this effects your life greatly. I worked with Oncology patients-they are not happy to be there. I worked with a Plastic surgeon- people are usually excited to be there.

The poor dentists, well none of us love to go see our dentist. They have quite a high, and the highest among Drs, rate of suicide....hm.

When considering what type of specialty to go into, do a little research- look up under the Dept of Labor statistics,and websites that compare careers based on who's happiest, hours worked, income, increase or decrease of need of that profession, etc.

You can also call around to see if you can 'shadow' a Dr for a day. If they know you're going to medical school they might allow it. You'll see exactly what they do, what type of patients they see, the pace, etc. You might even be allowed in to watch a surgery, which can be thrilling.

Good luck, but as the other person said, do not just go by income. It's a lot of stress, and you won't be good at it if you are not passionate about it.

Hope it helps.