Cosmetic Surgery Vs Plastic Surgery

The terms Cosmetic Surgery and Plastic Surgery are often used interchangeably but this is technically incorrect. Most individuals think that they are the same but although Cosmetic Surgery and Plastic Surgery are closely related specialties, they are not the same.

Both Cosmetic surgery and Plastic Surgery deal with improving an individual’s body, but the overarching philosophies that guide the training, research, and goals for the outcomes differ.

Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic or Aesthetic Surgery is entirely focused on enhancing a person’s physical appearance. The key goals of Cosmetic Surgery are to improve the aesthetic appeal, proportion and symmetry. The procedures are elective and the individuals should be healthy before undergoing the surgery. Cosmetic Surgery can be performed on all areas including the head, neck, and body. The procedures are performed by doctors from different medical fields including Plastic Surgeons.

Types of Cosmetic Surgery include:

• Face: Facelift, brow lift, Eyelid lift, Neck lift, Rhinoplasty, Cheek, or Chin enhancement.

• Breast: Breast lift, Breast augmentation, and Breast reduction.

• Body: Liposuction, Tummy tuck, and Gynecomastia treatment.

• Skin: Neurotoxins, Dermal fillers, Chemical peels, and Laser resurfacing.

Plastic Surgery

Plastic Surgery is a very broad field that encompasses both reconstructive and cosmetic (aesthetic) procedures. It is a specialty that focuses on repairing facial and body defects due to birth defects, disease, trauma, and burns.

Board Certified

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery each have distinct practice goals that are built around a specific set of procedures. This follows a training and certification process for a Board-Certified Surgeon. The training and certification for a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon is different from that of a Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon.

Surgeons carry different Board-Certified requirements depending on which board certifies them. One of the most recognized Board Certification bodies is the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). It provides certification under the American Board of Medical specialties.

To be a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, you have to have at least completed six to eight years of specific training in an accredited Plastic Surgery training program in the U.S.

The other major society certifying Plastic Surgeons is the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) exclusively certifies surgeons in Cosmetic Surgery.

Book Your Appointment for a Consultation

Would you like to understand what options are available for both Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery in Dubai? Meet one of our experts at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery for a personal consultation to develop a tailor-made plan for you. Contact us or Book an appointment and our patient care coordinators will identify the most suitable expert for you.