Key Features:

• Reconstructive Surgery: Procedures that restore appearance and function after trauma, cancer surgery, or congenital anomalies (e.g., cleft lip and palate repair, breast reconstruction).
• Burn Repair: Treatment and reconstruction of injuries caused by burns.
• Hand Surgery: Repairing injuries and conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities.
• Microvascular Surgery: Reattaching or reconstructing tissues and organs using microsurgery techniques.

Cosmetic Surgery

Definition: Cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing or improving the appearance of specific body parts for aesthetic reasons.

Key Features:

• Procedures: Common cosmetic surgeries include:
  • Breast Augmentation or Reduction: Enhancing or reducing breast size.
  • Rhinoplasty: Reshaping the nose.
  • Liposuction: Removing excess fat from specific areas of the body.
  • Facelift: Reducing wrinkles and sagging skin to create a more youthful appearance.
  • Tummy Tuck: Removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen.

Differences

• Purpose: Plastic surgery primarily aims to restore function and appearance after trauma or congenital issues, while cosmetic surgery focuses solely on enhancing appearance.
• Insurance Coverage: Reconstructive procedures may be covered by insurance, whereas cosmetic procedures are usually elective and not covered.

Training

Surgeons in both fields complete a residency in general surgery followed by specialized training in plastic surgery. Board certification in plastic surgery ensures a surgeon’s training and expertise in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.