DGÄPC
The DGÄPC, the German Society for Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery, was founded in 1972 and is the oldest professional association in this field in Germany.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
Definition: What is the DGÄPC?
The DGÄPC means German Society for Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery. It was founded in 1972, making it the oldest scientific society in this field in Germany.
The DGÄPC is an association of medical specialists who specialise in aesthetic procedures and are committed to strict quality standards and a code of ethics.
The implications for patient safety
In aesthetic medicine, trust is good, but qualifications are better. The DGÄPC plays a crucial role in patient safety by shifting the focus away from pure marketing and towards medical excellence.
Members of the DGÄPC are committed to regular professional development and to sharing information on the latest, scientifically proven surgical techniques. This minimises the risk of complications and ensures that patients receive treatment in line with the current state of medical science. In the event of an incident, additional protection is provided by a Consequential Costs Insurance, which is often recommended by specialists adhering to the DGÄPC standard as a supplement to the safety policy.
DGÄPC membership criteria: Who can become a member?
Not every registered doctor can join the DGÄPC. The criteria have been deliberately set high in order to maintain its status as a mark of quality:
The 4 pillars of DGÄPC membership
1. Specialist status
Title: ‚Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery‘ or ‘Surgery with a sub-specialism in Plastic Surgery’.
2. Work experience
At least three years’ independent practice, predominantly in the field of aesthetics, as a registered specialist.
3. Personal recommendation
Admission is generally subject to a guarantee from two existing members.
4. Ethics
Commitment to the internal code of ethics, which prioritises patient-centred care over commercial interests.
Distinction: DGÄPC vs. DGPRÄC vs. VDÄPC
There is often confusion about the various abbreviations used in the field of plastic surgery. Here is a brief overview to help you make sense of them:
| Professional association | Focus | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| DGÄPC | Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery (services paid for by the patient) | The highest standards for services paid for by patients themselves |
| DGPRÄC | All aspects of plastic surgery | Including reconstructive, burns and hand surgery |
| VDÄPC | Association of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons | Close cooperation with the DGPRÄC, with a focus on aesthetics |
Many surgeons are members of several of these societies, which highlights their interdisciplinary expertise.
The annual DGÄPC statistics: trends and facts
Once a year, the company publishes what is known as the DGÄPC statistics. This is based on extensive patient surveys and provides valuable insights into:
- the most popular procedures (e.g. breast augmentation, eyelid lift)
- patient motivation
- demographic trends (e.g. an increase in the number of treatments for men)
- Patient satisfaction and safety requirements
This data is not only useful to the scientific community, but also helps patients to critically examine trends and set realistic expectations regarding their own treatment.
Why DGÄPC membership is a mark of quality for patients
If you are looking for a surgeon, the DGÄPC logo should be an important criterion. It guarantees that the practitioner:
- has completed the complex, six-year specialist training programme.
- specialises in cosmetic surgery.
- is well-connected and recognised within the professional community.
- regular inspections and quality standards are accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the DGÄPC
It is proof of your doctor’s high level of qualification. You can be sure that your surgeon is a fully qualified specialist with a focus on aesthetics.
No, but membership makes the assessment process easier for you. For DGÄPC members, the evidence of qualifications has already been assessed by experts.
Prices are based on the German Scale of Fees for Medical Practitioners (GOÄ) and the individual practitioner’s expertise. Quality comes at a price, but a higher standard of safety often saves costs by avoiding the need for corrective procedures.
No, the DGÄPC is a professional association, not an insurance company. To cover financial risks in the event of complications, we recommend taking out private supplementary insurance for cosmetic procedures.
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