Ever Googled “cosmetic surgery near me” and ended up confused about the difference between plastic and cosmetic surgery?

Plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are often mistaken to mean the same thing. However, there are marked differences between the two disciplines.

What Is Plastic Surgery?

Plastic surgery is a broad medical term that covers both cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. It focuses on reconstructing facial or body imperfections caused by trauma, disease, birth disorders, or burns. By nature, it is a reconstructive procedure.

In 1999, the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons changed their name to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This was a move to communicate that both practices are the same while helping to categorize the specialty better.

Is Plastic Surgery Covered by Insurance?

To a certain degree, yes. Insurance often covers a plastic surgery procedure. If a surgery is deemed as reconstructive, there is a higher chance an insurance company will cover it. For example, an insurance company may cover reduction mammaplasty or breast reduction surgery if the patient is suffering from chronic pain as a result of having large breasts. In addition, it also typically covers the repair of certain birth deformities, like a cleft palate.

Common Plastic Surgery Procedures

Here are some of the most common plastic surgery procedures:

  • Breast reconstruction
  • Breast reduction
  • Breast lift (augmentation mastopexy)
  • Scar removal or revision
  • Skin cancer removal
  • Burn repair surgery
  • Hand surgery
What Is Cosmetic Surgery?

Cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing a patient’s physical appearance. It’s an aesthetic form of surgery performed on any part of the head and neck. Cosmetic surgeons also help redesign and reshape the aesthetic appeal of the body.

This form of surgery is considered an elective procedure since the patient is voluntarily seeking the operation. Certified plastic surgeons, including doctors who specialize in various medical fields, can also perform cosmetic surgery.

Is Cosmetic Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Mostly, no. Insurance companies don’t cover most cosmetic surgery procedures. However, there are instances where an insurance carrier might consider covering a cosmetic operation. For example, in the case of blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery. If a severely drooping eyelid is causing the patient vision problems, a health insurance company might make an exception and cover the procedure.

Common Cosmetic Surgery Procedures

Some of the most popular cosmetic surgeries are the following:

  • Liposuction
  • Tummy tuck
  • Breast enhancement, lifting or reduction
  • Gynecomastia treatment
  • Neck lift
  • Face lift
  • Botox injections
  • Laser resurfacing
  • Cheek enhancement
  • Rhinoplasty
  • Cellulite treatment
What to Consider When Selecting a Cosmetic Surgeon

Before having any form of cosmetic surgery done, it’s important to find a qualified surgeon that can perform the procedure. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the right plastic or cosmetic surgeon.

1. Board-certified credentials

It’s important to find a skilled surgeon with a board-certified background to perform the surgery you have in mind. A reliable surgeon will have years of experience under their belt. Often, their past clients highly recommend them, and these surgeons feature an unblemished track record.

Once you find a surgeon, don’t hesitate to ask about their credentials. Trustworthy surgeons will gladly share this information. You might even find this posted on their website or office.

2. Ensures patients are comfortable

Any form of surgery can cause anxiety, even stress, in certain patients. It is the surgeon’s job to ensure their patients are comfortable even before the procedure starts. A good surgeon will provide their clients with proper information, so they understand the process they are about to go through including what to expect before, during, and after they perform the surgery.

Another important sign is they should be willing to answer questions about the procedure or address any hesitation a patient may have.

3. Offers excellent postoperative care

A dependable surgeon and his team should provide excellent postoperative care to their patients. This can come in the form of follow-up calls or check-ups to make sure the patient is healing well after surgery. If emergency issues do come up, they are ready to assist or correct problems that may surface.

Finding the Right Cosmetic Surgeon in Fort Lauderdale

Palmer Cosmetic Surgery is the primary solution for certified plastic surgery in Fort Lauderdale.

With over three decades of private practice, Dr. Palmer and his team ensure that every cosmetic procedure they perform achieves outstanding results. Personalized care is a top priority here with each procedure tailor-fit for each patient.

We emphasize postoperative aftercare as well, with each patient receiving unlimited follow-up support. The staff is also available 24/7 to answer any queries or concerns.

You are in good hands. Experience the best plastic surgery in Fort Lauderdale. There’s an extensive selection of cosmetic procedures to assist you in leading a better life. Speak to the staff and book a consultation today.