Determining Public Awareness of the Roles of Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons: A Survey-Based Study in Saudi Arabia

Background Dermatologists and plastic surgeons share overlapping roles in managing skin conditions and performing cosmetic procedures, yet their core responsibilities differ significantly. Dermatologists diagnose and treat skin, hair, nail, and mucous membrane disorders, while plastic surgeons focus on reconstructing and restoring tissue function and appearance. Misunderstandings about these specialties can lead to inappropriate referrals, delayed treatment, and increased healthcare costs. This study aimed to assess public awareness of the roles of dermatologists and plastic surgeons using a scenario-based questionnaire in Saudi Arabia to identify misconceptions and knowledge gaps among the public and inform targeted educational efforts and improve referral accuracy. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among Saudi residents using a structured, self-administered online survey distributed via social media. The survey included demographic questions and scenario-based assessments of participant understanding regarding the roles of dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Responses were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 27 (Released 2020; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States), with descriptive statistics used to summarize participant characteristics and awareness levels. Pearson's chi-square test was applied to assess associations between awareness and sociodemographic factors, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results Of the 882 respondents, 86.2% demonstrated poor awareness regarding the appropriate specialist for common dermatological and cosmetic procedures, while only 13.8% exhibited good awareness. Female participants (14.8%) and single individuals (16.7%) had significantly higher awareness levels (p=0.049 and p=0.023, respectively). Social media was the most commonly reported source of information (79.9%), suggesting its substantial influence on public perceptions. Common misconceptions included the widespread belief that Botox injections are primarily performed by plastic surgeons (55.3%) and a lack of recognition of dermatologists' surgical capabilities, such as in skin cancer treatment. Conclusion This study highlights a critical gap in public awareness regarding the roles of dermatologists and plastic surgeons in Saudi Arabia. Targeted educational interventions, particularly through social media, are essential to address these misconceptions, improve patient decision-making, and enhance referral accuracy. Future research should explore the impact of these educational efforts on patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.