Plastic Surgeon vs Cosmetic Surgeon: What’s the Difference?

By Mike Igi | September 26, 2022

The trend for cosmetic surgeries continues to rise, with the US leading the charge.

As the trend for people to enhance their looks increases, more and more people are turning to options like plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures.

However, you might wonder: what’s the difference between a plastic surgeon vs cosmetic surgeon?

We’re here to offer our thoughts on the matter. Read on to find out which of these specialties you might consider when it comes to your procedure.

The Training and Education of a Plastic Surgeon vs Cosmetic Surgeon

The term plastic surgery is often used interchangeably with cosmetic surgery. However, there is a big difference between the two.

Plastic surgeons are medical doctors who have completed a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by a four-year medical degree. What sets them apart is the three-year residency in plastic surgery.

Cosmetic surgeons are also medical doctors. But, they have not completed any residency training. They only have a cosmetic surgery fellowship.

The Difference in the Procedures Each Type of Surgeon Performs

Plastic surgeons focus on reconstructive surgery. Cosmetic surgeons focus on enhancing a person’s appearance.

Both types of surgeons require extensive training and experience. Plastic surgeons undergo additional training in reconstructive surgery. This training enables them to better repair deformities and damage caused by accidents or diseases.

Cosmetic surgeons focus on cosmetic treatments. Procedures that improve a person’s appearance. Such as facelifts, breast augmentation, and Botox injections. While cosmetic surgery can improve a person’s appearance, it is not intended to correct deformities or damage.

The Type of Patient Each Type of Surgeon Sees

The type of patient each type of surgeon sees can be distinguished by the reason for surgery. Plastic surgeons see patients who have sustained injuries or have congenital abnormalities. On the other hand, cosmetic surgeons usually see patients who are looking to improve their appearance through elective surgery.

The Overall Cost of Services Between a Plastic Surgeon and a Cosmetic Surgeon

The overall cost of services between a plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon is significant.

Normally, the surgeon’s fee for a plastic surgeon is usually higher since they can offer a wider range of services. On the other hand, a cosmetic surgeon will typically have a lower overhead cost since they only perform cosmetic surgery.

Plastic Surgeon vs Cosmetic Surgeon – Why Does It Matter

Why does the “plastic surgeon vs cosmetic surgeon” inquiry matter? A plastic surgeon is a medical doctor specializing in surgery to repair or replace body parts. A cosmetic surgeon is a plastic surgeon specializing in surgery to improve the appearance of body parts.

The difference between plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons is that cosmetic surgeons focus on aesthetics, while plastic surgeons focus on function. That’s why you should know which is which so you would know who to go to depending on what you want.

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