From minimally invasive procedures to extremely complicated combination and revision plastic surgery, the field of aesthetic surgery has become extremely diverse and, at the same time, highly specialized. When a patient wanted or needed surgical intervention in the past, there was only one option – surgery with a given downtime and longer recovery period. However, with so many technological advances in modern medicine, it’s now possible to undergo some of minimally invasive procedures on an outpatient basis with minimal to no downtime including procedures such as Bodytite. For a more complete discussion of Bodytite procedures that involve skin tightening without the larger scars.
While the procedure and technology have changed, the need for a board-certified plastic surgeon remains the same. Plastic surgery should be performed by a plastic surgeon, a medical doctor, who has had at least 6 additional years of surgery and plastic surgery training. A cosmetic surgeon, by contrast, can include family practice doctors, OB-GYNs, emergency room physicians, and anyone else who graduated medical school. While some people interchange the words cosmetic and plastic surgery, they are two totally different entities.
Cosmetic Versus Plastic
When it comes to choosing the right surgeon, it’s important to know how cosmetic and plastic surgeons differ. Cosmetic surgeons are not required to have any formal training in plastic surgery.
Another major difference between the words cosmetic and plastic is that most cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance because they are considered not medically necessary.
One example of a medically necessary plastic surgery procedure would be a breast reduction, which may be covered by insurance provided a significant amount of breast tissue is removed to meet insurance requirements.
While many women choose to enhance their breasts, the procedure is usually considered cosmetic. This means the patient either pays out of pocket or applies for a medical loan to cover the expense. But if the surgery is deemed medically necessary, it can be covered by health insurance.
Understanding Board Certification
Another thing prospective patients need to consider is board certification. Board certification in plastic surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) assures that the patient has a competent plastic surgery practitioner who can not only perform complex procedure but manage postoperative concerns and complications as well.
Making the Decision
Patients considering surgical intervention, either for personal enhancement or out of necessity, need to do their homework. Look for a qualified surgeon through the American Board of Plastic Surgeons website. While it may take a little longer to find someone who is qualified, it’s still better than having procedures done by someone who isn’t really qualified to do so.