Checking a plastic surgeon in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, look for the specialism ‘plastische chirurgie’ on the BIG-register.
Last checked 18 October 2026What the titles mean in the Netherlands
Doctors in the Netherlands are registered in the BIG-register. A plastic surgeon is registered as a doctor with the recognised specialism plastische chirurgie.
The register also shows any measures taken against a practitioner, so it's the first place to look.
What we check for Dutch surgeons
Society membership is voluntary. Not being a member doesn't mean a surgeon isn't qualified.
How to check it yourself
- Search the doctor's name on the BIG-register. BIG-register
- Check the specialism shows plastische chirurgie.
- Look for any measures (maatregelen) on their registration.
- If you like, look them up in the NVPC member directory.
Common questions
Who can call themselves a plastisch chirurg?
The Dutch government says only people listed in both the BIG-register and their professional body's specialist register may use a recognised specialist title, and “plastisch chirurg” (plastic surgeon) is one of those titles. The BIG-register is the official register of healthcare professionals, and it also shows any measures taken against a practitioner.
Source: Rijksoverheid (Dutch government)What does BIG stand for?
Beroepen in de Individuele Gezondheidszorg, the Dutch law on healthcare professions. The BIG-register is the official register under it.
Is the register in English?
The search works in English and Dutch. Specialisms are shown in Dutch, so look for plastische chirurgie.
I'm considering surgery abroad. What should I check?
The same principle applies everywhere: find the official register in that country and look for specialist registration in plastic surgery. See every country we cover