While cosmetic and plastic surgery both help improve a person’s appearance, the two procedures have differences. Understanding the distinctions between these two surgical procedures can help you choose the right option for achieving your desired outcome. At Somerset Plastic Surgery, we offer a wide range of plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures to meet our clients’ unique needs. Here’s an in-depth look at the differences between the two medical practices:
Goals
Cosmetic surgery aims to enhance a patient’s physical appearance by improving their aesthetic features. The surgery involves elective procedures that aren’t medically necessary, including breast augmentation and liposuction.
Plastic surgery is a reconstructive procedure that focuses on restoring function and repairing underlying damages caused by congenital disabilities, injuries, or diseases. This surgery is medically necessary, as it improves a patient’s quality of life.
At Somerset Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to helping patients achieve their cosmetic and plastic surgery goals. Our team takes time to understand each patient’s unique goals and concerns to offer individualized care.
Training and Qualifications
Specialists in plastic and cosmetic surgery are certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). While both bodies require specialists to complete medical school and join a residency program afterward, they have different requirements for their members.
A cosmetic surgeon should attain a medical degree and complete an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) or American Osteopathic Association (AOA) program to be certified. The surgeon should also complete an American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) fellowship focusing on cosmetic surgery procedures, non-invasive cosmetic procedures like chemical peels, and quality patient care.
To be certified, a plastic surgeon should earn a degree from an accredited medical school; undergo at least six years of surgical training, three of which are in a plastic surgery residency program; and become certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). A plastic surgery residency program focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the face, body, and limbs.
Somerset Plastic Surgery is an ABPS, ASPS, and ASAPS-certified medical facility. These certifications show that our surgeons have extensive training and expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery and have met the highest standards of patient safety and care. Our certified surgeons also stay updated on the latest techniques and technologies that advance plastic and cosmetic procedures to enhance the quality of care.
Payment
Cosmetic procedures are typically not covered by insurance. Insurance companies categorize them as elective, meaning they aren’t performed for medical purposes. Exemptions to this may include surgeries deemed medically necessary. A rhinoplasty procedure may be deemed necessary if a patient has a deviated septum obstructing breathing. Breast reduction may also be eligible for insurance coverage if it’s performed to alleviate back pain.
Plastic surgery procedures may be covered by insurance if they’re deemed medically necessary. Coverage may vary depending on the procedure you want to undergo and your insurance policy. Consult with your insurance provider to determine what coverage is available for your desired procedure.
Somerset Plastic Surgery accepts cash, checks, and credit card for cosmetic procedures. This allows our patients to use their preferred mode of payment, enhancing their convenience. We accept insurance coverage for plastic surgery procedures. Our new patient forms provide all the necessary insurance guidelines to enhance compliance.
Procedures
Common cosmetic procedures include breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, and facelifts. Breast augmentation is performed on those who want to increase the size or improve the shape of their breasts. Liposuction is performed on people looking to lose weight or define their body features, as it involves removing fat from body parts. Rhinoplasty is ideal for people looking to reshape their noses. Facelifts involve lifting and tightening the skin on the face and neck for a more youthful appearance.
Common plastic surgery procedures include breast reconstruction, cleft lip and palate repair, and burn reconstruction. Breast reconstruction involves rebuilding the breast tissue after one undergoes a mastectomy to treat breast cancer. Cleft lip and palate repair involves correcting congenital disabilities that affect the lip and palate. Burn reconstruction involves repairing tissue and skin damaged by burns.
Our team comprises four doctors with experience with the above-discussed procedures. Our broad selection of procedures enables us to provide individualized care that improves patients’ confidence, self-esteem, and quality of life.
Somerset Plastic Surgery Will Meet Your Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Needs
At Somerset Plastic Surgery, we have plastic and cosmetic surgery professionals dedicated to achieving each patient’s aesthetic goals. Our team offers personalized care from start to finish, beginning with a thorough consultation to discuss your desired outcome and potential risks. You’ll also learn about how the procedures work and what to expect in recovery. We guide and suggest the most suitable procedure to our patients based on their physical and mental health, pre-existing conditions, and personal requirements. Contact us for effective cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures.