Have you ever thought about why they call it “plastic surgery”? The term plastic means to mold, and is from the Greek word plastikos. It was first used to describe a specialty of surgery in 1837.
Here is a great definition of a plastic surgeon:
We restore, repair, and make whole those parts…which fortune has taken away, not so much that they may delight the eye, but that they may uplift the spirit and help the mind of the afflicted.
Plastic surgery vs. Cosmetic surgery
While both cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery deal with improving a patient’s body, the training, research and goals for patient outcomes are very different.
Cosmetic Surgery: Focused on Enhancing Appearance
The procedures, techniques, and principles of cosmetic surgery are entirely focused on enhancing a patient’s appearance. Improving aesthetic appeal, symmetry, and proportion are the key goals. Cosmetic surgery can be performed on all areas of the head, neck, and body. Because the treated areas function properly, cosmetic surgery is elective. Cosmetic surgery is practiced by doctors from a variety of medical fields, including plastic surgeons. So keep in mind that an EENT (Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat) doctor may also perform cosmetic surgery.
Plastic Surgery: Focused on Repairing Defects to Reconstruct a Normal Function & Enhancing Appearance
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 and reconstruct dysfunctional areas of the body. While many plastic surgeons choose to complete additional training and perform cosmetic surgery as well, the basis of their surgical training remains reconstructive plastic surgery. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons communicates the message that “plastic and reconstructive surgeons are one in the same.
Plastic Surgery Training: The Key Difference
Following completion of medical school, a board-certified plastic surgeon serves first as a surgical resident for at least 3 years where they undergo rigorous training in all aspects of surgery and then 3 years of focused plastic surgery training. The process can take 6 to 8 years or more and many further their training in fellowships including micro vascular, craniofacial, hand, pediatric and aesthetic. This is a key differentiator between a plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon.
Choosing a Plastic Surgeon: Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Nashville’s Best Nip and Tuck and Top Doctor, Dr. Chad Robbins, is board certified by the ASPS and ASAPS, focuses on breast reconstruction, skin cancer closures, breast enhancements, mommy makeovers, body contouring such as tummy tucks, lower body lifts and buttock enhancements as well as face lifts, nose and eye lifts.
