Introduction - General vs. Cosmetic Surgery
Plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are not the same. You may hear some people use the terms interchangeably - but that is a common mistake.
While both aim to improve a person’s body, they stand on different grounds regarding goals, training, and procedures. Understanding these differences is important for anyone considering surgery to enhance their appearance or function.
For the best plastic surgery, San Antonio has to offer - Stars Plastic Surgery.
Key Takeaways
- Plastic surgery combines both aesthetics and reconstruction as well as restores function and appearance after injury or disease.
- Cosmetic surgery enhances looks to meet personal desires.
- Cosmetic surgery is an element of Plastic surgery
- All Plastic surgeons can be cosmetic surgeons but not the other way around
- Cosmetic surgeons who are not plastics surgeons did not undergo as rigorous training
- Make sure the surgery type aligns with individual goals.
- Cosmetic surgery does not have board certification recognized by national standards. Make sure that your cosmetic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons.
What is Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery is the practice of restoring, reconstructing, or altering the human body.
It encompasses both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery - but its foundation is deeply rooted in reconstructive procedures.
Plastic surgery aims to correct dysfunctional areas of the body, which can be caused by birth disorders, trauma, burns, or diseases. This discipline not only restores function but also aims to bring back normal appearance (imagine the relief and confidence it brings to a patient).
Common Plastic Surgery Procedures
- Breast Reconstruction: Rebuilds a breast’s shape post-mastectomy.
- Burn Repair Surgery: Restores skin damaged by severe burns.
- Cleft Palate Repair: Fixes birth defects of the roof of the mouth.
- Scar Revision Surgery: Improves the appearance of scars.
- Hand Surgery: Restores hand and finger functionality.
What is Cosmetic Surgery?
Cosmetic surgery enhances a person’s appearance through surgical and medical techniques.
This elective surgery can be performed on all areas of the head, neck, and body. It is primarily concerned with improving aesthetic appeal, symmetry, and proportion.
Common procedures include facelifts, breast augmentation, and liposuction.
Cosmetic surgery is all about the patient’s desire for a changed appearance. A decision regarding cosmetic surgery often starts with a personal desire to look a certain way or to enhance one's appearance for confidence (think about the boost in self-esteem this can provide).
Cosmetic surgery’s elective nature means that it’s often not covered by health insurance, making it a significant financial decision as well.
The Training Paths Diverge
Training for Plastic Surgeons
Plastic surgeons undergo rigorous training that prepares them for various reconstructive procedures.
Their education starts with a general surgery residency, followed by a specialized plastic surgery residency program. This extensive training covers everything from craniofacial surgery to hand surgery and burn repair, ensuring that plastic surgeons are well-equipped to restore both function and appearance.
- General Surgery Residency: A foundation in surgical principles.
- Plastic Surgery Residency: Specialized training in reconstructive techniques.
- Optional Fellowships: Further specialization in areas such as microvascular surgery or pediatric plastic surgery.
Training for Cosmetic Surgeons
Cosmetic surgeons focus on procedures that enhance appearance. Their training pathway includes a residency in a related field such as dermatology, otolaryngology, or plastic surgery, followed by a fellowship exclusively in cosmetic surgery. This post-residency training is critical for mastering aesthetic procedures.
- Complete a residency in a related medical field.
- Pursue a fellowship in cosmetic surgery, focusing on aesthetic procedures of the face, breast, and body.
- Gain hands-on experience with a minimum number of cosmetic surgery cases to ensure competency.
Scope of Procedures
Facial Procedures
Cosmetic surgeons often perform surgeries like rhinoplasty and facelifts to enhance facial aesthetics. Plastic surgeons may also perform these procedures but are more likely to tackle reconstructive challenges such as cleft lip and palate repair.
Breast Procedures
Cosmetic surgery for the breasts includes augmentations and lifts, primarily for aesthetic enhancement. Plastic surgeons are skilled in these as well but focus significantly on reconstructive breast surgery following mastectomies.
Body Contouring
Liposuction and tummy tucks are popular among cosmetic surgeons for shaping the body. Plastic surgeons also perform these procedures, especially when excess skin removal is necessary after major weight loss.
Reconstructive Surgeries
Plastic surgeons specialize in reconstructive surgeries that correct defects on the body and face. These can include hand surgery, scar revision, and reconstruction of body parts affected by injury or disease.
Each path emphasizes a different aspect of surgery, underlining the importance of choosing a surgeon whose training aligns with a patient’s needs. Whether seeking enhancement or reconstruction, understanding these pathways ensures patients make informed decisions about their care.
Board Certification and Qualifications
Importance of Board Certification
You want to see Board Certification at your surgeon's office.
This certification assures the patient of a surgeon's qualifications.
The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) set distinct certification criteria, reflecting each specialty's different focuses.
Comparison: ABPS vs. ABCS Certification Criteria
- ABPS Certification:
- Requires completion of a residency in plastic surgery.
- Emphasizes reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery training.
- Mandatory written and oral examinations.
- IS recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
- ABCS Certification:
- Demands completion of a residency in a related field plus a fellowship in cosmetic surgery.
- Focuses exclusively on aesthetic surgery procedures.
- Requires a comprehensive exam and presentation of surgical cases.
- NOT recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
Making the Right Choice for You
Finding the Right Surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon is about aligning their expertise with your vision for enhancement or reconstruction. It requires research, consultation, and an understanding of your expectations.
- Look for surgeons with board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons.
- Review before-and-after photos of their work.
- Read patient reviews and testimonials.
- Schedule consultations to discuss your goals and concerns.
- Ask about their experience with the specific procedures you’re considering.
Considering the Surgical Goals and Outcomes
Your objectives guide the selection process. Are you looking to correct a functional impairment or to enhance your appearance? The answer steers you towards a plastic or cosmetic surgeon.
- Define your primary goal: reconstruction or enhancement.
- Research surgeons specialized in the procedure you want.
- Discuss potential outcomes and realistic expectations during consultations.
- Consider the surgeon’s philosophy on aesthetics and patient care.
Final Thoughts - Your Trusted San Antonio Plastic Surgeon
Understanding what distinguishes plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery helps you make well-informed choices tailored to your personal needs and aspirations. It's crucial to select a surgeon whose expertise and aesthetic sensibilities resonate with your vision.
At STARS Plastic Surgery in San Antonio, we are deeply committed to supporting you on this path, providing a blend of reconstructive and cosmetic procedures led by our team of expert surgeons. Place your trust in us to guide you toward achieving the results you envision, executed with the highest level of professionalism and care. All STARS Plastic Surgeons are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
