Plastic surgery is becoming more popular each year. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, cosmetic surgery procedures increased by 19% between 2019 and 2022. Botox, face lift, laser resurfacing, and breast augmentation are just a few types of procedures that you can have in order to improve your physical appearance. But what category do the different procedures fall under? Is there a difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery?

The confusion between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery lies in the fact that cosmetic surgery is a form of plastic surgery. It’s important to know the difference between procedures so that you will choose the right type of physician to schedule a consultation with. Keep reading to gain a deeper understanding of these procedures.

Reconstructive Plastic Surgery

Reconstructive plastic surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon and is used to rebuild features of the body. This type of procedure can be used to treat parts of the body that are affected aesthetically or functionally by infection, tumors, diseases, developmental abnormalities, or trauma. For example, a breast reconstruction after a mastectomy would be considered reconstructive plastic surgery. This type of surgery is often covered under health insurance since it can be deemed necessary for quality of life.

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

This is what many of us think of when we hear the term “plastic surgery.” This type of procedure can be used to enhance or reshape parts of the body. Cosmetic surgery is not often needed in order to fix a part of the body or rebuild a part of the body. Instead, it’s used simply to improve appearance. For example, a breast lift or enlargement would be considered cosmetic. This type of surgery is often not covered under health insurance as it’s not usually considered necessary for quality of life.

Other Procedures

There are other types of procedures that a cosmetic surgeon can assist you with. Not only are they not quite as invasive as other procedures, but they are often more affordable. These procedures include liposuction, face lifts, lip augmentation, and eyelid surgery.

Now that you know more about the difference between plastic and cosmetic surgery, you can approach a surgeon with confidence. We may just be the team you're looking for. Contact New Beginnings Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery today to get started with a consultation!