What is cosmetic surgery? Also known as cosmetic surgery, cosmetic surgery is what many people think of when they hear the term plastic surgery. This field of medicine encompasses all procedures performed to enhance or improve aesthetic appeal, symmetry, and proportion. This includes procedures such as breast augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, facelift, rhinoplasty, and eyelid lift, just to name a few. In other words, cosmetic surgery is a subspecialty of plastic surgery.
Reconstructive surgery is often considered “medically necessary” and may be covered by health insurance. Plastic surgery is a broader field that encompasses both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. While reconstructive surgery addresses congenital anomalies, trauma, or medical conditions, cosmetic or cosmetic plastic surgery focuses on improving appearance. Plastic surgeons receive extensive training in both reconstructive and aesthetic aspects, providing them with comprehensive skill set.
Often seen as a hallmark of modern medical aesthetics, plastic surgery has roots that go deep into the annals of history. Today's procedures shine with the sheen of high technology and the appeal of social acceptance, but the journey of plastic surgery is a developing story that began long before the first Botox injection smoothed out puckered eyebrows. From the meticulous stitching of ancient Indian surgeons to the innovative advances achieved in the midst of the ravages of world wars, plastic surgery has been transformed over the centuries, reflecting the changing contours of medical science and social norms. In the post-war era, both surgeons highlighted the technological advances that revolutionized plastic surgery.
However, as a surgeon who performs “cosmetic surgery, or possibly for the sake of our future patients”, the description of a cosmetic plastic surgeon seems to be an acceptable description. While I would consider myself a “cosmetic plastic surgeon” within the larger philosophical context, this is a personal statement of my “inner journey”. All ASPS members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited centers, and follow strict safety and ethical standards. Trained plastic surgeons can also perform complex hand surgeries, peripheral nerve surgeries, craniofacial surgeries and microsurgeries.
Kim added depth to this narrative and noted that plastic surgery essentially began with a focus on reconstruction, underscoring the fundamental goal of restoring normality before improving appearance. However, as surgeons involved in a multifaceted effort, our work undoubtedly qualifies as an aesthetic quest according to Dutton's criteria and the way in which we interact as a professional group.
