Cosmetic vs. Plastic

Cosmetic surgery is a unique discipline of medicine focused on enhancing appearance through surgical and medical techniques. Cosmetic surgery can be performed on all areas of the head, neck and body. Because treated areas function properly but lack aesthetic appeal, cosmetic surgery is elective.

Plastic surgery is defined as a surgical specialty dedicated to reconstruction of facial and body defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns, and disease. Plastic surgery is intended to correct dysfunctional areas of the body and is reconstructive in nature.

The AACS has designed a special patient education website, Be Wise About Beauty,  explaining the difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery, and how to choose your cosmetic surgeon. This website clears up misconceptions in the media, issues about board-certification and the multi-disciplinary nature of cosmetic surgery.