Both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery are types of plastic surgery, but each procedure has a different goal. Reconstructive surgery helps restore functionality and appearance after an injury, while cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing your looks. A plastic surgeon can help you determine which option aligns with your goal. Here are factors that help determine which type of surgery is best for you:
Purpose
Reconstructive surgery aims to improve the appearance of parts of the body affected by congenital defects, trauma, or disease. It may also help correct physical impairments that interfere with daily activities or trigger discomfort. The primary goal of seeking reconstructive surgery is to improve your quality of life by addressing medical or physical impairments.
Cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing your body’s appearance to match your preferred physical features. Patients may select cosmetic surgery to alter facial structure, reduce wrinkles, or remove undesirable body fat. Cosmetic surgery is often a personal decision rather than a medical procedure.
Medical Necessity
Reconstructive procedures are usually considered a medical necessity and can be covered by some health insurance plans. Breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, hand surgery to repair nerves, or rhinoplasty are common surgeries covered by insurance. Some insurance policies might also cover cosmetic procedures if they impact your quality of life. Other types of cosmetic surgery are typically out-of-pocket since improved physical health is not the primary goal. A plastic surgeon helps correct sagging skin or adjust the shape of your nose according to your goals rather than a medical referral.
Patient Profile
Physical trauma or recovery from tissue loss typically qualifies candidates for reconstructive surgery. Individuals with medical conditions that impact daily function, such as hernias, deviated septums, or carpel tunnel, often seek reconstructive surgery to improve their quality of life. A primary care physician can refer patients for reconstructive procedures.
Most cosmetic surgeries have eligibility requirements to help ensure patient health after the procedure. While minimally invasive procedures, such as mole removal, are safe for most patients, invasive surgeries like breast reduction may cause complications for patients with pre-existing medical conditions. Unhealthy habits, including smoking, drug use, or overeating, should be eliminated before a surgical procedure. After completing a health evaluation, a professional can approve you for a cosmetic procedure.
Surgical Complexity
Specialists adopt techniques such as tissue transfer, microsurgery, or implants when conducting reconstructive surgery. Multiple techniques may be applied during a single procedure or over the course of many procedures. Reconstructive procedures demand an understanding of anatomy and body function to rebuild or restore body parts and their functions. Cosmetic surgery strategies concentrate on altering existing structures to refine an aesthetic. It entails removing excess tissue, repositioning features, or adding implants to achieve your desired effect. This procedure can be swift, allowing you to return to your normal engagements.
Recovery Process
After any plastic surgery procedure, managing swelling and bruising and undergoing proper incision healing are key parts of the recovery process. Patients who had reconstructive surgery may also be required to attend physical therapy or rehabilitation sessions. They must learn to adapt to bodily changes or rebuild their range of movement or muscle. After cosmetic surgery, most patients can return to work quickly.
Some procedures, such as breast implant replacement or injectable touch-ups, may require maintenance over time. Preparing for future intervention can help you maintain your ideal appearance. In some instances, a surgeon may recommend additional adjustments to complement or enhance the current procedure.
Talk to a Plastic Surgeon
Plastic surgery, including reconstructive and cosmetic, alters your physical appearance to meet your medical or aesthetic needs. Experienced surgeons evaluate your skin structure and face and body shape to recommend and administer the appropriate treatments. Contact an experienced plastic surgeon today for a consultation.
