Are you curious about the difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery? Maybe, you have always assumed they are the same. Well, people often used these words interchangeably. Moreover, you are not the only one who believes that they are equal. But the truth is, they are not.
If a friend, coworker, or loved one had cosmetic surgery, they may assume it has done by a plastic surgeon. Or, if someone had surgery to fix burned skin, he may assume a cosmetic surgeon did it.
Cosmetic Surgery Vs. Plastic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery categorizes as two distinct types of procedures. They are different although many surgeons can perform both.
Let us explore what these procedures are and how they are different.
What Is Cosmetic Surgery?
Cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing the body’s appearance. Moreover, it aims to make the patient look aesthetically appealing. The primary goals of this procedure include the body’ symmetry, proportion, and fullness.
Cosmetic surgery can be done anywhere on the body including the face. Also, this surgery does not fix the impaired function of a body part. Instead, focuses only on the appearance of it. That is why it is considered by the medical industry and by insurance companies to be elective.
Some examples of cosmetic procedures are:
- Breast augmentation, reduction, and lift
- Facial contouring, such as rhinoplasty and cheek enhancement
- Body contouring, such as tummy tuck and liposuction
- Skin procedures, such as BOTOX®
Why Does Cosmetic Surgery Popular?
Now more than ever, there is a big demand for the plastic surgeon. Because more patients hope to achieve a younger look. Thus, helps people improve their self-esteem. Aside from that, the procedure today is getting much affordable than it was before. Social media also plays part in the popularity of cosmetic as well as plastic surgery. Moreover, people want to control their flaws and be as attractive that they wanted. Besides, cosmetic and plastic surgery is widely accepted today. So, there is a lesser and lesser stigma when it comes to aesthetic procedures.
What Is Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery focuses on the reconstruction of a body part. Moreover, it primarily aims to correct problems. Burns, disorders, traumatized organs, and tissues are some of them. In short, plastic surgery is reconstructive surgery, not cosmetic surgery. Some examples of plastic surgery procedures are:
- Breast reconstruction (to correct issues caused by birth defect, disease, or trauma)
- Burn repair
- Birth defect correction, such as for a cleft palate
- Scar revision for large or very noticeable scars
Will My Plastic Surgery Last Forever?
Yes, plastic surgery lasts forever and leaves no scar. Much plastic surgery produces last for years, if not for decades. Nevertheless, also other factors determine how long the results would last. Even if you are already satisfied with the results, you still need great skincare to maintain the look. Moreover, your surgeon will suggest less-invasive office procedures to preserve your natural good look.
Training And Certifications For Surgeons
Cosmetic surgery Vs. Plastic surgery: which one is the best?
Most plastic surgeons also perform cosmetic surgery. However, cosmetic surgeons only receive training related to cosmetic procedures.
The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery certifies cosmetic surgeons in various categories, including:
- Breast surgery
- Tummy tuck
- Liposuction
- Facial surgery
The American Board of Plastic Surgery certifies plastic surgeons in six categories:
- Hand surgery
- Disorders
- Reconstructive surgery
- Trauma surgery
- Congenital defect repair
- Cosmetic surgery
Thus, plastic surgeons are competent to perform reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery.
Is Cosmetic Surgery The Same As Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery and other techniques are also a part of cosmetic surgery. This includes both surgical and nonsurgical procedure that aims to enhance the appearance of the body. Besides, cosmetic surgeons can also perform surgery from the head, neck, trunk area, and other extremities. Both surgeons practice related medical specialties that can change the appearance of a person. However, they are still not the same. The cosmetic surgeon focuses on different training than the plastic surgeon.
Which Surgeon Is Right For A Patient?
How to tell if the patient needs a plastic surgeon or a cosmetic surgeon? The answer depends on the type of procedure he or she needs to be done, and why. If the surgery aims to fix the body’s appearance which is functioning properly and normally? Then, the patient needs a cosmetic surgeon.
However, when the patient needs to fix a dysfunctional body part, then he needs a plastic surgeon. He needs reconstructive surgery because of an accident, burns, or birth defect.
Many plastic surgeons can also perform cosmetic procedures. Even so, it does not mean that the patient should always go to a plastic surgeon. You do not necessarily have to do that.
Surgeons develop expertise and experience in certain categories of training they received. Yes, a plastic surgeon can specialize in trauma defects. Also, they can have a wealth of experience in congenital defect repair procedures. But not with cosmetic surgery. Likewise, cosmetic surgeons can have expertise in breast augmentation procedures. As well as specialization in body contouring but not with facial contouring.
So when it comes to plastic or cosmetic surgery, look for a well-experienced surgeon. He must be knowledgeable in the specific type of procedures that you need.
Elective Medical Practice Business Experts
New York-based Cosmetic Medical Partners has more than 15 years of experience serving medical clinics and practices. Our company helps doctors and investors in the development, rollout, and management. As well as in the marketing of cosmetic and elective medical treatments.
Whether you are a doctor, marketer, or investor who wants to begin or better manage a medical venture – we are here to help. Alternatively, whether you are entering new markets or growing your practice nationally or internationally – we will collaborate with you. Cosmetic Medical Partners will help you practice, grow, and thrive.
Do you want to hear more about how Cosmetic Medical Partners can help you? Or, you want to schedule a consultation? Call (718) 268-6060 or fill out our online request form now. We look forward to helping you reach for the stars as you help people live more confidently – and look more beautiful.
