Reconstructive plastic surgery may be covered by insurance, while cosmetic plastic surgery is elective and usually not covered. The terms plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are often used interchangeably. Although both disciplines of medical science are aimed at improving a person's body, they are different from each other in many ways. Even cosmetic and plastic surgeons may have different qualifications and experience. The differences between cosmetic and plastic surgery are as follows.
Board-certified plastic surgeons have completed at least six to eight years of specific training in an accredited plastic surgery training program in the United States, regulated by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). According to the ABPS, board-certified plastic surgeons can only operate in properly certified centers and can only perform in-office procedures for those who also have hospital privileges. 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 standards of safety and ethics. But while cosmetic surgery is a type of plastic surgery, cosmetic surgeons can only perform cosmetic procedures, explains Dr.
To discuss the differences between plastic and cosmetic surgery, we asked three member surgeons of the ASPS for their opinion. In a survey of 5,135 people, 87 percent believed that surgeons should have special credentials and training to perform cosmetic procedures or to advertise themselves as cosmetic, aesthetic or plastic surgeons. Since there is no legal limitation on who can call themselves a plastic surgeon, it can be difficult to determine who is truly qualified to perform plastic surgery. It is essential to select a qualified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in the procedure you are considering.
And becoming a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons requires even more extensive training. Currently, 92% of board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States are members of the ASPS, which represents 11,000 plastic surgeons worldwide. Each type of surgeon receives different training, and while there are many trained and well-trained cosmetic and plastic surgeons, learning the difference can help you understand the credentials and experiences of each surgeon. Plastic surgery is very similar to reconstructive surgery, and some plastic surgeons perform head-to-toe reconstructions, whether on the face, hands, or even feet.
Between Botox parties, the opening of beauty bars across the country, and social media influencers speaking more openly about their plastic surgery, there can be some confusion about what constitutes plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery. Getting a breast lift (augmentation) is a cosmetic procedure that can be performed by a plastic or cosmetic surgeon. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the other major society that certifies to plastic surgeons.
