The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery published an interesting article describing the difference between plastic and cosmetic surgeons.
There are many questions and misconceptions about the two and many patients mistakenly believe that plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons are equal when they are not.
Aesthetic vs. Reconstructive
To explain the difference I’ll start by defining plastic surgery. The term “plastic” in plastic surgery is derived from the Greek word “plastikos” which means to mold or shape. There are several specialized fields under plastic surgery including reconstructive surgery which involves the restoration of almost any body part that is abnormal due to a trauma/accident, cancer or birth defect; and aesthetic surgery, (sometimes referred to as cosmetic surgery), which is the aesthetic enhancement of the body or re-shaping normal tissue to improve appearance.
In other words, aesthetic surgery is a sub-specialty of plastic surgery. Reconstructive surgery is often considered medically necessary and may be covered by health insurance.
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Lawrence Iteld, MD