Cosmetic Surgery Vs Reconstructive Surgery
There was a time where the term plastic surgery connoted a procedure that sought to solely improve the cosmetic looks of specific areas of a body. In reality, though, plastic surgery is an all-encompassing term that covers any procedure that enhances both the function and performance of a specific part. However, plastic surgery can also be broken down into two major subsets: cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery.
What Is Reconstructive Surgery?
While reconstructive surgery has cosmetic benefits, the primary purpose of this type of surgery is to repair damaged or deformed body parts, ideally so the body part looks and functions normally. Reconstructive surgery is a medical necessity in many cases:
- Burns
- Certain forms of cancer
- Congenital disabilities (for example, cleft lips or palates)
- Developmental abnormalities
- Disease
- Scarring
- Trauma caused by a severe injury
- Tumors
Because the purpose of reconstructive surgery is to regain physical function, these operations and procedures are typically covered by most insurance plans. Further, even though most people probably think of cosmetic repairs when they think of plastic surgery, cosmetic surgeons only make up about 1/6th of all plastic surgeons.
How Are Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Similar?
The goals of cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery (which is sometimes referred to by its more generic name “plastic surgery”) can be different. However, there remains many similarities between the two types of procedures.
For instance, regardless of the nature of the procedure performed, surgeons should always work to limit potential damage and maximize the cosmetic result as much as they can. With that said, it’s also essential that patients ask questions and discuss with their surgeons the potential cosmetic issues.
Because any potential procedure can have both reconstructive and cosmetic benefits, there are many examples of surgical procedures that may be covered by one insurance plan but not another based solely on the patient’s needs. A classic example of this is nose surgery or rhinoplasty. While many people have this surgery performed to improve their appearance, there are just as many that require the procedure to breathe correctly, especially if they’ve just suffered a nasal fracture.
Cosmetic Surgery & Plastic Surgery Have Different Goals
The differences between cosmetic and plastic surgery lie in their goals. Cosmetic surgery focuses on augmenting a patient’s aesthetic appearance. Typically, this means improving symmetry or proportions, and there are many common cosmetic procedures of which most people are aware:
- Botox
- Breast enhancement (for example, augmentation, lift or reduction)
- Chin or cheek contouring
- Facelifts, brow lifts, eyelid lifts, and neck lifts
- Gynecomastia reduction
- Laser surfacing
- Liposuction
- Rhinoplasty
- Skin rejuvenation
- Tummy Tucks
If any of these body parts are otherwise functioning as they should, any of the above procedures would be considered cosmetic and elective, meaning they most likely wouldn’t be covered by insurance. If any of the above were malfunctioning, or in need of repair for regular use, then the surgery would be considered reconstructive, and thus necessary and usually covered by insurance.
Select the Best Plastic Surgeon in Houston, TX
Whether you’re seeking cosmetic or reconstructive plastic surgery, picking the right surgeon to consult with and perform the operation is a critical first step.
Dr. Michael J Steitmann’s offers a complete range of surgical services to meet your needs. Contact our Houston or Conroe office today to set up a consultation and take your first step on a path that will leave you feeling and looking like yourself.