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Checking a plastic surgeon in Switzerland

In Switzerland, a plastic surgeon should hold the federal title in Plastische, Rekonstruktive und Ästhetische Chirurgie on MedReg. Here's where to check it and what to look for.

We read the official register directly. Last checked 18 October 2026
Check a surgeon in Switzerland

What the titles mean in Switzerland

MedReg, run by the Federal Office of Public Health, lists every doctor's diploma, federal specialist titles and cantonal licences to practise. Foreign titles appear once Switzerland has recognised them, and are legally equivalent.

We read MedReg directly, including which cantons a surgeon is licensed in and any restrictions, and check Swiss Plastic Surgery and the main hospitals.

A woman in a consultation with a doctor at his desk

What we check for Swiss surgeons

MedReg (Federal Office of Public Health)Specialist titles, cantonal licences and restrictionsOfficial register
Swiss Plastic SurgeryNational society membershipIndependent
Hirslanden and university hospitalsHospital privilegesIndependent

Society membership is voluntary. Not being a member doesn't mean a surgeon isn't qualified.

How to check it yourself

  1. Search the surgeon's surname and first name on MedReg. MedReg
  2. Check the specialist titles include 'Plastische, Rekonstruktive und Ästhetische Chirurgie'.
  3. Check the licence to practise is active in the canton where they operate.

Common questions

Does a foreign title count in Switzerland?

Yes, once it is recognised. Recognised foreign titles appear on MedReg and are equivalent to the federal title.

Source: MedReg

Is hand surgery the same as plastic surgery?

No. Hand surgery is a separate federal specialist title.

Source: MedReg

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