Cosmetic Surgery Vs. Reconstructive Surgery
Many people assume cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery are the same, but these surgical procedures are distinctly different. While both may be used to alter and improve the body's appearance, the reasons behind each procedure define what type of surgery it is. The cost, insurance coverage, and necessity varies for each surgery as well. Both procedures are used to reshape, repair, lift, or tuck certain areas of the body or face.
Cosmetic surgery is an elective and optional procedure that typically is not a necessity. It is done to enhance or alter a person's physical appearance. Generally, there is no medical condition present that creates the need for cosmetic surgery. In some cases, this surgery is used to treat a condition that is not necessarily problematic, such as a tummy tuck after excessive weight loss or a breast lift after pregnancy.
Elective cosmetic surgery is performed to improve the body or face according to the patient's individual expectations. Common types of cosmetic surgery include liposuction, tummy tucks, facelifts, rhinoplasty, and breast reshaping. While cosmetic surgery is used to enhance and boost body image, it is generally not used to correct abnormalities or repair problems that occur from birth or result from certain medical conditions.
Reconstructive surgery differs from cosmetic surgery, because it is often considered to be medically necessary. It is used to treat specific conditions that cause abnormalities in the body's appearance. Reconstructive surgery repairs damaged parts of the body. Unlike cosmetic surgery, the main focus of reconstructive surgery is to improve the function of the body. This type of procedure can be elective, but in most cases, it is a necessity.
There are many circumstances that necessitate reconstructive surgery. Birth defects, abnormal scarring, skin cancer, and mastectomies can all create the need for reconstruction. Diseases, illnesses, accidents, or traumas that cause parts of the body to become misshapen or nonfunctional may also require reconstructive surgery. This type of surgery is necessary when a person cannot lead a normal life without the procedure.
There is a fine line between reconstructive and plastic surgery. Reshaping a nose to make it more aesthetically appealing is considered cosmetic, but repairing a deviated septum falls under the reconstructive category. Cosmetic surgery is considered optional, so patients are generally required to pay for it out-of-pocket. However, reconstructive surgery is typically covered by insurance companies, especially when the patient does not have any other options.
Writing regularly in both print and online media on plastic surgery and aesthetic issues, Dr. Bruce A. Mast offers easy-to-understand, expert insight into various ways available for enhancing patients' outward appearance. Possessing decades of experience helping men and women accomplish their goals of a more vibrant and youthful look, Dr. Mast offers compassionate, personable care as chief of the Plastic Surgery unit at UF Florida Center for Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. Dr. Mast carefully listens to patient concerns and goals to provide the most effective treatment for your individual situation. In addition to addressing concerns about appearance, the Florida plastic surgeon also help those affected by disease and accidents regain their prior look.
Find the best treatment and care for addressing issues with your appearance � whether they're simple aesthetic concerns or stem from an accident or illness � by visiting the offices of Dr. Bruce A. Mast at U.F. Or browse around for more insights into how you can safely enhance your outward appearance through plastic surgery and non-surgical, aesthetic treatments. Besides offering the best hands-on care, Dr. Mast also helps the public at large better understand plastic and cosmetic treatments and what to expect.