Cosmetic surgery is a specialized field focused on enhancing an individual's aesthetic appearance. These procedures are elective and performed to improve symmetry, proportion, or overall appearance. The goal of cosmetic surgery is to refine or enhance features rather than restore function.
Plastic surgery is a medical specialty that includes reconstructive and restorative procedures to correct defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns, disease, or medical conditions. Unlike cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery aims to restore function while also improving appearance.
| Feature | Cosmetic Surgery | Plastic Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Aesthetic enhancement | Restorative and reconstructive |
| Medical Necessity | Typically elective | Often medically necessary |
| Training Required | Focus on aesthetic techniques | Specialized training in reconstructive techniques |
| Insurance Coverage | Rarely covered as it is elective | May be covered if deemed necessary |
| Examples of Procedures | Breast augmentation, facelifts, liposuction, rhinoplasty | Breast reconstruction, burn repair, cleft lip correction, scar revision |
Facial Enhancements
Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping)
Facelift and brow lift
Botox and fillers
Body Contouring
Liposuction
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
Brazilian butt lift (BBL)
Breast Procedures
Breast augmentation
Breast lift (mastopexy)
Breast reduction (for aesthetic reasons)
Reconstructive Surgery
Corrects birth defects (e.g., cleft palate repair).
Restores function after accidents (e.g., skin grafts for burn victims).
Repairs damage from disease (e.g., mastectomy reconstruction).
Hand Surgery
Treats conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendon injuries.
Craniofacial Surgery
Focuses on correcting deformities of the skull, face, and jaw.
Burn Surgery
Repairs skin damage and improves function after severe burns.
Some procedures fall into both categories depending on their purpose. For example:
Rhinoplasty can be performed for cosmetic reasons or to correct breathing issues.
Breast reduction may be done to relieve back pain (plastic surgery) or for aesthetic enhancement (cosmetic surgery).
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can improve vision (plastic surgery) or create a more youthful appearance (cosmetic surgery).
Look for board certification from organizations such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS).
Check the surgeon’s experience and specialization in the procedure you want.
Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients.
Ensure the surgery is performed in an accredited medical facility.
While cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery share similarities, their goals and applications can differ significantly. Cosmetic surgery is elective and designed to enhance appearance, whereas plastic surgery focuses on reconstructive and functional improvements. Understanding these differences can help individuals make informed decisions about their surgical options and find the right specialist for their needs.
