Expert Plastic Surgery Options at Sound Plastic Surgery
If you are considering enhancing your appearance or addressing medical concerns through surgery, you may be wondering about the difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery. The terms are often used interchangeably. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right surgeon and procedure for your needs.
Cosmetic Surgery Focuses on Aesthetic Enhancement
Cosmetic surgery is a component of the surgical specialty called plastic surgery. A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon can perform cosmetic surgery to improve or enhance the appearance of a patient. These elective procedures are typically not medically necessary but are chosen by individuals who want to change or refine their physical features.
Standard cosmetic surgical procedures include breast augmentation with silicone or saline (implants), breast lift, breast reduction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), liposuction (fat removal), rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), facelift (rhytidectomy), liposuction, body lifting, and eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and fat transfer.
Cosmetic surgery focuses on aesthetics, symmetry, and proportion to achieve a patient’s desired look. At Sound Plastic Surgery, our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons work closely with patients to deliver natural-looking, transformative results.
Plastic Surgery Also Focuses on Reconstruction and Function
Board Certified Plastic Surgeons are trained in the reconstruction of defects or damage resulting from trauma, illness, birth disorders, or cancer surgery. The goal is often to restore normal function and appearance, although many procedures also have cosmetic benefits.
Common Reconstructive Plastic Surgery procedures include:
- Breast reconstruction after mastectomy
- Cleft lip and palate repair
- Burn repair surgery
- Scar revision surgery
- Hand surgery (to correct injuries or deformities)
As you can see, Board Certified Plastic Surgeons are experienced in addressing medical concerns and restoring physical function, as well as improving aesthetic appearance.
Training and Qualifications: Are Cosmetic Surgeons and Plastic Surgeons Different?
One key distinction lies in the training and qualifications of the surgeons. Plastic Surgeons all complete a full surgical residency in otolaryngology or general surgery before completing an additional three years of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery specialty training. During residency programs, Plastic Surgeons undergo comprehensive training in both cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. This training covers various surgeries, from repairing damaged tissues to elective aesthetic enhancements. After training, all board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons must complete a rigorous written board exam followed by a two-day challenging oral examination.
Cosmetic surgeons, on the other hand, have not completed a surgical residency in Plastic Surgery. Perhaps a cosmetic surgeon completed a short ‘fellowship’ or weekend course in cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic surgeons are not board-certified plastic surgeons and often do not have local hospital privileges to perform surgery. Choosing a surgeon to perform your cosmetic surgery comes down to training and experience, which all Board Certified Plastic Surgeons have. At Sound Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons have extensive cosmetic and surgery training, ensuring you receive safe and exceptional care.
Which Surgeon Should You Choose for Your Procedure?
Choose a Plastic Surgeon with an excellent track record for patient safety, lots of quality before and after photos, and Board Certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Plastic surgeons are also members of the highly esteemed American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
At Sound Plastic Surgery, our plastic surgeons specialize in various procedures tailored to your cosmetic goals. Our team takes a personalized approach to help you achieve your desired outcome while prioritizing your safety and satisfaction.
Schedule a Cosmetic Surgery Consultation at Sound Plastic Surgery Today
If you’re considering cosmetic surgery, schedule a consultation at Sound Plastic Surgery. Our experienced Plastic Surgeons will discuss your goals and recommend the best approach to meet your needs. With patient-centered care and advanced techniques, we help patients achieve life-changing results.