Cosmetic Surgery vs Plastic Surgery – What’s the Difference?

Cosmetic vs plastic surgery are two terms that are often used interchangeably. While both types of surgeries are focused on enhancing a patient’s appearance, there is a fundamental difference between cosmetic and plastic surgery. Plastic surgery is a specialty within medicine that focuses on reconstructive surgery to repair defects or deformities caused by birth defects, trauma, or disease. Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, refers to a specialty within medicine that focuses on enhancing a patient’s appearance through elective surgical procedures.

Cosmetic vs Plastic Surgeons

Plastic surgeons are medical professionals who have completed plastic surgery training and are certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Plastic surgery training involves a rigorous residency program and board certification that includes training in both plastic and reconstructive surgery. On the other hand, cosmetic surgeons are medical professionals who are certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. While a cosmetic surgeon may also be board certified in plastic surgery, their training typically focuses exclusively on aesthetic surgery.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeons vs Cosmetic Surgeons

Board certified plastic surgeons are highly qualified medical professionals who have completed extensive training and have passed rigorous exams to earn their certification. They have specialized knowledge and expertise in plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures and are equipped to handle a wide range of cases. Plastic surgeons are also required to complete ongoing education and training to maintain their board certification and keep up-to-date with the latest techniques and procedures.

Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, is an elective procedure that focuses on enhancing a patient’s appearance. Common cosmetic surgery procedures include breast augmentation, liposuction, facelifts, and rhinoplasty. Cosmetic surgeons are also highly qualified medical professionals, but their focus is on aesthetic surgery rather than reconstructive surgery. While plastic surgeons may also perform cosmetic surgery procedures, not all cosmetic surgeons are trained in plastic surgery procedures.

Patients considering cosmetic or plastic surgery should research their surgeon’s credentials and make sure they are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Additionally, patients should seek out surgeons who are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or the Society of Plastic Surgeons to ensure that they are receiving the highest quality care.

Training of Plastic Surgeons vs Cosmetic Surgeons

In terms of plastic surgery training, plastic surgeons typically complete a residency in general surgery followed by a residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery. During their residency, they receive comprehensive training in plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures, including cleft lip and palate repair, burn reconstruction, and hand surgery. This training provides plastic surgeons with a wide range of skills and expertise to help them address a variety of issues and conditions.

Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery is another important factor to consider when choosing a plastic surgeon. This certification indicates that the surgeon has met rigorous standards of training, education, and experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery. It also requires ongoing education and training to maintain certification and stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and procedures.

Aesthetic Surgery

Aesthetic surgery, on the other hand, is focused on enhancing a patient’s appearance through elective procedures. These procedures are typically performed on patients who are looking to improve their physical appearance or reduce the signs of aging. Common aesthetic surgery procedures include breast augmentation, facelifts, and liposuction.

In addition to plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery, there is also a specialty called plastic and reconstructive surgery. This specialty combines both plastic and cosmetic surgery techniques to help patients achieve both functional and aesthetic improvements. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons are trained to address a wide range of issues, including birth defects, trauma, and disease.

Takeaways

There is a difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery. While both specialties are focused on enhancing a patient’s appearance, plastic surgery is focused on reconstructive surgery to repair defects or deformities, while cosmetic surgery is focused on elective procedures to enhance a patient’s appearance. Patients considering plastic or cosmetic surgery should research their options carefully and choose a board certified plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon who has completed the necessary training and education to perform the procedure they are seeking.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Board of Plastic Surgery are two organizations that patients can turn to for information and resources related to plastic surgery. These organizations provide resources on plastic surgery procedures, board certification, and finding a qualified plastic surgeon.

Patients should also be aware of the risks and potential complications associated with plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures. All surgeries carry some level of risk, and it’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with their surgeon and make sure they understand the potential risks and complications before undergoing any surgery.

Support and guidance from family and friends can also be important factors in the decision to undergo plastic or cosmetic surgery. Patients should consider joining support groups or seeking the advice of trusted family and friends before making a final decision.