Plastic Surgeon vs. Cosmetic Surgeon: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the Specializations When it comes to enhancing physical appearance, many turn to either plastic surgeons or cosmetic surgeons. Though often used interchangeably in conversation, these two professions are distinct in their training, certifications, and areas of expertise. It’s important for anyone considering a procedure to understand the differences between these two types of surgeons.

Training and Certification A plastic surgeon typically undergoes extensive medical training which includes medical school, a residency in general surgery, and additional residency in plastic surgery. They are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This certification ensures that they have met rigorous standards in plastic surgery of both the face and body.

Cosmetic surgery is a subspecialty focusing on enhancing appearance through surgical and medical techniques. Cosmetic surgeons can come from various medical fields, including plastic surgery. They may be certified by boards such as the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), which specifically attests to a physician’s knowledge, experience, and skill in cosmetic surgery.

Procedures Performed Plastic surgeons are trained to perform reconstructive surgeries which repair defects or damages caused by trauma, burns, disease or birth disorders. They also perform aesthetic surgeries that change appearance but often have an underlying functional purpose. Examples include rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) that can correct breathing issues or breast reduction that can alleviate back pain.

In contrast, cosmetic surgeons focus exclusively on aesthetic procedures intended to enhance one's appearance without necessarily addressing a functional impairment. These procedures include facelifts, breast augmentations purely for size increase or symmetry adjustments, liposuction strictly for contouring purposes and other similar surgeries.

Safety Considerations When choosing between a plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon in Lancaster for an elective procedure, safety should be paramount. A board-certified plastic surgeon has undergone more specific training related to handling complications that could arise during reconstructive surgeries which translates into robust expertise even when performing cosmetic procedures.

Evaluating Surgeon Expertise It's crucial for patients to evaluate potential surgeons based on their specific needs. If someone requires reconstruction after an injury or due to congenital disabilities, it is advisable to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with such complex structures and tissues.

For individuals seeking enhancement procedures like Botox injections or other minimally invasive treatments aimed solely at improving aesthetics without affecting function—such as anti-aging treatments—a skilled cosmetic surgeon might be preferred especially if they have focused their practice on these types of treatments.

Making the Right Choice Residents of Lancaster looking into surgical options should carefully consider their goals and do thorough research before selecting a practitioner—understanding credentials and reviewing before-and-after photos from prior patients can offer insight into what results one might expect from each type of specialist.