Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery: What Is the Difference?

Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery: What Is the Difference?

Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery are different. For example, one may be covered under insurance while the other may not. Here is more information about it. It may seem like all plastic surgery is the same. In reality, reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery are very different. While plastic surgery is becoming more popular as time goes by, it's still misunderstood by many people. However, both cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery have distinct differences. They serve different patient needs. Here's what you should know about the differences between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

What is Cosmetic Surgery?
Cosmetic surgery is a type of surgery that will improve a patient's appearance. The focus of this type of surgery is on improving a person's appearance. Surgeons perform cosmetic procedures in a variety of areas of the body. This includes the head, the neck, and other parts of the body. Cosmetic surgery is often performed by plastic surgeons. Doctors in other medical fields may perform cosmetic surgery as well. Cosmetic surgery procedures are usually elective procedures that insurance doesn't cover. Patients will usually be perfectly healthy before they have surgery. They'll simply be getting cosmetic surgery for aesthetic reasons alone.

What is Reconstructive Surgery?
Reconstructive surgery improves abnormalities and defects in appearance or body shape. As opposed to cosmetic surgery, it is typically done to improve function. It's not usually used solely to improve the appearance of the body. Developmental abnormalities may cause abnormal appearance issues. They may also be caused by trauma, infection, or other issues. Unlike cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery will usually be covered by insurance. This will vary depending on a specific insurance plan.

Similarities Between Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery
Cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery are different. They're also very similar as well. Reconstructive surgery focuses on improving the functionality of the body. Yet, it will still be important to keep the appearance of the body in mind. Patients should discuss the end result of the surgery with the plastic surgeon beforehand. This will help ensure that expectations are being met. When it comes to insurance, it can be difficult to understand what to expect. While reconstructive surgeries are often covered by insurance, cosmetic surgeries often aren't. Some conditions may fall under both categories. This depends on a person's needs and a specific situation. Rhinoplasty, for example, is one type of procedure that may be used for many reasons. It may either improve breathing or improve appearance. You may want to read more Rhinoplasty information if you're interested in this procedure. Both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery will be different in ways. They're also very similar as well. It's important to remember this. You may or may not be able to get insurance coverage based on your specific condition.

Final Thoughts on Reconstructive Surgery
If you need to get cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, understand the differences. Cosmetic surgery can be helpful for improving your appearance. Reconstructive surgery is important for restoring essential functionality and improving defects. Not all plastic surgery procedures will be covered by insurance, however, so you'll want to keep this in mind when seeking plastic surgery.

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