PLASTIC and
RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Is there a difference between the two?

The short answer is....yes. Plastic surgery consists of both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, with distinct differences between the two. The type required is dependent on the underlying reasons for the procedure. Cosmetic surgery is elective and commonly performed when a patient would like to improve their appearance through procedures such as liposuction, breast lifts and/or reductions, nose reshaping, facelifts, tummy tucks, and body contouring following weight loss. Less invasive procedures include microdermabrasion, facial fillers and chemical peels.

Reconstructive surgery, on the other hand, may be medically necessary and often times improves a damaged or abnormal part of the body. For example, women who have had breast cancer may need breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. Other examples might be
reconstruction following skin cancer removal or facial reconstruction after
an automobile accident. Although reconstructive surgery does in fact
mprove a person’s appearance, the main focus is on regaining
functionality to a specific part of the body.