Why Plastic Surgeons are the best surgeons to choose for Cosmetic Surgery?
Although cosmetic treatments have become increasingly common among women and men alike, a surprising number of individuals do not know much about the field.
If you have always assumed that the terms “plastic surgeon” and “cosmetic surgeon” are synonymous, you certainly are not alone. In fact, according to a survey conducted by RealSelf, more than half of American women believe the same. However, the differences between the education, certification, and licensure, and procedures offered by cosmetic vs. plastic surgeons are significant.
Understanding how a plastic surgeon differs from a cosmetic surgeon is vital, particularly if you are considering undergoing a surgical procedure.
Since plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are often used interchangeably to describe procedures like breast augmentation, tummy tuck, facelift, and rhinoplasty, many individuals believe that plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons are the same. Recent studies have shown that over half of the women in the United States are unaware of the difference between a plastic and cosmetic surgeon.
Plastic Surgeon vs Cosmetic Surgeon
What are the differences between a plastic surgeon vs cosmetic surgeon? Despite often being used interchangeably, “plastic surgeon” and “cosmetic surgeon” actually encompass two very different definitions. Depending on your specific case, goals, and other factors, one or the other may be a better fit for your situation.
One point to understand is that a plastic surgeon has gone through extensive residency and fellowship requirements that make them exceptionally qualified to do cosmetic surgery which is a portion of what is learned during their fellowship. If they can reconstruct a body part from disfigurement, then they are specially qualified to do it for aesthetic reasons.
Different Disciplines
Cosmetic surgery is considered an elective procedure, practiced to enhance a patient’s experience through medical and surgical techniques. Areas treated with cosmetic surgery function properly, but might not have the aesthetic appeal the patient desired.
Plastic surgery is a specialty focused on the reconstructions of specific defects of the face and body. These defects can be caused by trauma, birth disorders, disease, or burns, and the surgical procedures are for the purpose of correcting areas of dysfunction. Therefore, cosmetic surgery is a component of plastic surgery.
Cosmetic Surgeon Training and Education
Cosmetic surgeons have a background comprising of medical school and a residency, with no preference for surgical training. The next step could be a weekend course in cosmetic surgery procedures, which are not regulated by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Pay for a certificate.
Plastic surgeons attend medical school, compete for a surgical residency which is approximately 5 years of training. After the residency, qualified applicants must compete for a plastic surgery fellowship, usually lasting 2 years.
There are a handful of highly competitive programs that combine the surgery residency with the plastic surgery fellowship. Graduating fellows are then eligible to complete certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The timing for residency and fellowship is 6 years minimum.
The difference between a plastic and cosmetic surgeon is not the procedures they offer; instead, the difference is the surgeon’s qualifications for performing those procedures.
More often, bad plastic surgery results or “plastic surgery fails” are due in part to an unskilled professional that was chosen to perform an operation they were not adequately trained for.
Simply put, plastic surgeons are better trained and are more uniquely qualified due to vigorous training than a cosmetic surgeon.
Find a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in Houston
Making a choice to undergo cosmetic or plastic surgery is a big decision, and selecting an experienced, knowledgeable doctor that is a good fit for your case is vital. The right surgeon will be well-equipped to provide the best possible results for your case and give you the peace of mind you need to feel confident moving forward.
Dr. Michael J. Streitmann is a Houston plastic surgeon certified in both reconstructive and plastic surgery, making him an excellent option for a wide range of procedures. Due to Dr. Streitmann’s extensive experience in the field and his dedication to excellence, his practice has become one of the most trusted providers of plastic and cosmetic surgery in Houston. Compassionate, skilled, and genuinely committed to his patients, Dr. Streitmann can help you reach a new level of confidence and comfort with your body.
For more information about our selection of cosmetic surgery procedures and whether you are the right candidate for surgery, please schedule a consultation at our Houston or Conroe office today.