Cosmetic Surgery vs. Plastic Surgery: Simple Answers to Patients’ Questions

Patients often have similar questions about cosmetic surgery vs. plastic surgery. Although the answers make sense, the specific words that are used may confuse your patients and the general public.

As digital marketers for cosmetic surgery practices, our goal is to make your workday easier and more productive while helping you increase patient satisfaction. Over the years, we’ve learned that sometimes patients only want simple and concise answers to their questions —  especially considering that online research can be so overwhelming.

For that reason, we’ve created the following Q & A to simplify communication between you and your patients.

Cosmetic Surgery vs. Plastic Surgery: Questions and Answers

Below are several common questions about plastic surgeries, cosmetic surgeons, and more, along with relatively succinct, simple answers for your team to use when talking with prospective and current patients.

What is plastic surgery?

“Plastic surgery focuses on repairing, restoring, or reshaping parts of the body because of birth defects such as cleft lips, injuries, illnesses, or other medical conditions. It can also include procedures that improve a person’s appearance or help a part of the body work better.”

What is cosmetic surgery?

“Cosmetic surgery is a type of plastic surgery. It is performed solely to enhance or refine a person’s appearance.”

What is the difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery? Please clarify.

“Plastic surgery is a medical specialty focused on repairing, rebuilding or reshaping parts of the body, while cosmetic surgery is done to improve or enhance a person’s appearance.”

What are some examples of cosmetic surgeries that would not be considered plastic surgery?

“Don’t get too caught up in the concept of cosmetic surgery vs. plastic surgery — because one of the key distinctions lies in which physician completes the procedure. Other factors include the purpose of the procedure and the clinical context.

For example:

• A rhinoplasty (nose surgery) can be performed by a plastic surgeon or an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist (otolaryngologist).
• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can be performed by a plastic surgeon or ophthalmologist with specialized oculoplastic training.
• Some dental solutions, such as veneers or dental implants, are cosmetic but part of dentistry, not plastic surgery.

Tummy tucks (abdominoplasties), breast augmentation and liposuction also fall within the plastic surgery umbrella — although they can be elective cosmetic procedures performed by a certified physician who is not a plastic surgeon.

Luckily, you’re in great hands here with our skilled and experienced cosmetic surgery team. We’ll help calm your nerves, continue providing reassurance, and answer all your questions along the way.”

Are plastic surgeons board-certified?

“In the United States, physicians who identify as board-certified plastic surgeons should hold certification from a board such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Because ‘cosmetic surgeon’ is not a recognized primary medical specialty in the same way that ‘plastic surgeon’ is, organizations like the ABPS emphasize that board certification matters more than the title ‘cosmetic surgeon.’”

Are all cosmetic surgeons doctors, and do they have specialized training for cosmetic surgery?

“Unlike board-certified plastic surgeons, licensed physicians can perform cosmetic procedures regardless of their original residency training, as long as various legalities and medical requirements are met. You can also explore the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery website to verify credentials.”

Is plastic surgery covered by insurance?

“Plastic surgery is often medically necessary, so many insurances will cover these procedures to some extent. Check with your provider to verify coverage and copays, or speak with a member of our cosmetic surgery team for more information.”

Is cosmetic surgery covered by insurance?

“Cosmetic surgery is not usually covered by insurance, but there may be some exceptions. Check with your insurance provider, or speak with a member of our cosmetic surgery team for more information.”

Is a cosmetic surgeon or plastic surgeon more expensive?

“It depends on the complexity of the procedure and the surgeon’s training and reputation.

Board-certified plastic surgeons may charge more because they have extensive plastic surgery training and experience with complex reconstructive procedures.

Cosmetic surgeons may charge less — but not always. Some are highly experienced physicians from other specialties, such as ophthalmology, dermatology or otolaryngology who have additional cosmetic surgery training.

If you are trying to choose a physician for your procedure, one who is not board-certified in plastic surgery may sometimes charge lower fees, but that’s not the rule. Many high-demand, well-known cosmetic surgeons may charge more because of their reputation or niche expertise.”

The concept of cosmetic surgery vs. plastic surgery can be confusing for patients, but our digital marketing strategies can help you reach and educate your prospective patients. For more information about our digital marketing solutions for cosmetic surgery centers, call or email us today!