Difference Between Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeons

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is the most important step in pursuing a surgical solution to your cosmetic problem. Before even beginning the process, it is essential to understand the difference between plastic and cosmetic surgeons-otherwise you put your bodily aesthetics and overall health at risk.

Thanks in part to the Internet ridding plastic surgery of previously associated taboos, plastic surgery has spiraled in popularity. In an attempt for physicians to meet society's demands, many have labeled themselves as cosmetic surgeons.

This labeling requires no expertise or additional training-any licensed physician can refer to himself as a cosmetic surgeon, even if the only cosmetic experience he has is wart removal. To be considered a plastic surgeon however, requires at least six years of general surgery with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery training.

Risks of Choosing a Cosmetic Surgeon

Recently, numerous cases of injury and even death caused by unqualified physicians carrying out invasive procedures without the proper training have been plastered to the front pages of newspapers.

By choosing a cosmetic surgeon that is not properly licensed as a plastic surgeon, you risk:

• Pain
• Infection
• Scarring
• Nerve damage
• Death

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

It is essential when shopping for a plastic surgeon that you choose one that has extensive training, background and expertise in the surgical procedure you are pursuing.

The most apparent qualifying-or disqualifying-factor is membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Members of this elite, plastic surgeon society must:

• Be certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery®, which is the only board dedicated to facial and full body plastic surgery, or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada®
• Have undergone at least six years of surgical training and experience, with at least three years in plastic surgery
• Operate only in accredited medical facilities
• Adhere to a strict code of ethics
• Fulfill continuing medical education requirements

Even by choosing a plastic surgeon with membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you run the risk of dissatisfaction. In order to best guarantee that your goals and expectations are met, you should prepare a list of questions for your initial consultation, including:

• What type of anesthesia will be used?
• How many times have you performed this procedure?
• Do you have a before and after gallery I may view of patients with similar pre-surgery goals whom you have performed this procedure on?
• What risks are associated with this procedure?
• Have you ever had complications arise during a similar procedure?

Dr. Otto J. Placik is a certified diplomat by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Inc® and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. To learn more about the differences between cosmetic and plastic surgeons, please contact our Chicago plastic surgery office today to schedule your personal consultation.