Many people use the words surgery and plastic surgery as if they are the same. They aren’t always identical. Both change or alter bodies by surgery. A lot of people consider them the same. One of the main distinctions is the reason for the surgery.
Knowing these differences can help you make an informed decision about surgical procedures. In this blog, we will describe cosmetic surgery vs. plastic surgery, and their main differences, common procedures and things to consider when choosing a surgeon.
What is Cosmetic Surgery?
Cosmetic surgery is done to improve a person’s appearance. It can be done to alter the shape or change the size of features of the body or face.
Cosmetic surgery can be performed on any part of the body.
Some common types of cosmetic surgeries are:
- Rhinoplasty to change the shape or appearance of the nose
- Facelift to remove the signs of aging on the face
- Liposuction to remove excess body fat
- Breast augmentation to change breast size
- Tummy tuck to improve the shape of the abdomen
- Eyelid surgery to change the appearance of the eyelids
The results and risks can vary depending on the procedure, the person’s health and the surgical technique used.
What Is Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery is a medical field. It includes procedures that repair. Reconstruct or improve parts of the body.
Plastic surgery may be needed after an injury burn, birth condition, disease or another medical problem. Some plastic surgery procedures can also improve appearance.
Examples include:
- Burn reconstruction
- Scar revision
- Cleft lip and palate repair
- Hand surgery
- Breast reconstruction after cancer treatment
- Reconstruction after an accident or injury
- Repair of birth-related conditions
Plastic surgery is commonly confused with cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgery is performed to change or improve one’s look. Plastic surgery helps change anatomy to restore form and function after disease and injury.
Cosmetic Surgery vs Plastic Surgery: Key Difference
Plastic or cosmetic surgery differ by purpose.
Plastic surgery may be used to refer to all surgical procedures that are done to correct an abnormality and to restore function and normal anatomy.
However there can be an overlap between the two fields. Some procedures can have both reconstructive goals.
For example breast reconstruction after cancer treatment is usually considered surgery. Breast augmentation is usually performed for cosmetic reasons.
Not all Plastic Surgeons are Cosmetic Surgeons
Plastic surgery includes many different procedures and not all surgeons are experts in every single one of them. Some develop interest and experience in certain areas.
Examine the surgeon’s education, experience and details area. Discuss the issues and goals with the surgeon.
If you are looking for a plastic surgeon in South Delhi, check the surgeon’s qualifications and experience for that particular procedure.
How Do You Choose Between Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery?
To choose between Cosmetic or Plastic Surgery, the main consideration should be the goals of the surgery.
Factors to consider:-
- What do you want to improve?
- Is your main goal to improve look or function?
- Have you undergone previous surgeries to treat a medical condition?
- Are there limitations to the results which are realistically achievable?
- What are the possible risks and recovery requirements?
- Is the surgeon experienced in the procedure?
A qualified consultation can help you understand whether surgery is appropriate for your situation.
What About Plastic Surgery Cost in Delhi?
The plastic surgery cost in Delhi can vary widely. There is no price for plastic surgery because the cost depends on several factors.
These may include:
- Type of procedure
- Complexity of the surgery
- Surgeon’s experience
- Hospital or clinic charges
- Anaesthesia charges
- Tests and medicines
- Follow-up care
- Length of hospital stay if required
You should expect a thorough discussion about the treatment plan and costs associated with the plan, prior to the surgery. Saving money by choosing the least expensive option is not always the best decision.
What are the Risks of Cosmetic Surgery?
Bleeding, infection, anesthesia and medication reactions, swelling, and scarring are all risks of surgical procedures, and the extent of risk is dependent on several variables. Because of this, it’s important to have a complete medical work-up before undergoing any surgical procedure.
What to Expect after Cosmetic Surgery?
Patients are encouraged to take all prescribed medicines, and to maintain all pre and post operative appointments to enhance their healing. This may include wound care and rules on how to avoid scarring.
When to See a Cosmetic Surgeon?
If you have a particular concern about your appearance and you’d like to learn about options available to treat it, you should make an appointment with a cosmetic surgeon.
If you want to find the Best Cosmetic Surgeon in Delhi, do not base your decision on reviews and advertisements. Look at the surgeon’s qualifications and experience. Also, watch out for surgeons talking about the risks and benefits of the available procedures. You may express your expectations and see if surgery is able to meet your expectations in your consultation.
Plastic vs. Cosmetic Surgery
If you have a medical condition that needs treatment and helps improve your look, you should look into Cosmetic surgery vs plastic surgery. The range of Cosmetic Surgery is generally broader. Both types of surgery can also improve function.
Knowing the types of available surgeries can help you approach a Board Certified surgeon to see if surgery is an option for you.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Gautam Chaudhury
MBBS • MS (General Surgery) • M.CH (Plastic Surgery)
16 yrs in practice
IAPS member
Delhi-based practice
