Plastic Surgery 101: Reconstructive Surgery Vs. Cosmetic Surgery

In the world of plastic surgery, many don't realize that there are two different types of plastic surgery: cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. So, we wanted to clear the air and explain the differences between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery.

While they do hold some basic similarities, such as improving a person's body, the two kinds of plastic surgery differ largely in the reasons behind the improvements. Read more to find out the key differences between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery.

What Is Cosmetic Surgery?

Cosmetic plastic surgery focuses completely on enhancing the patient's appearance. Procedures, techniques, and principles focus primarily on improving symmetry and proportion. Some examples of cosmetic surgery include breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and Brazilian butt lift.

Unlike reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery is entirely elective and performed to improve appearance and self-esteem by reshaping otherwise healthy and normal anatomy. Being an elective procedure, health insurance almost never covers cosmetic surgeries. Cosmetic surgery remains extremely popular, with billions spent annually in the United States.

What Is Reconstructive Surgery?

Reconstructive surgery focuses on improving function or appearance by addressing issues caused by birth and congenital defects, infections, trauma, tumors, burns, or disease. Some examples include breast reduction and breast reconstruction, as well as septoplasty (to correct a deviated septum).

While techniques may be similar to cosmetic surgery, reconstructive procedures are traditionally performed for a medical purpose. If someone gets a nose job solely for appearance, that's cosmetic surgery; if they undergo septoplasty to breathe correctly after injury, that's reconstructive surgery. Because of its purpose, most health insurance policies cover certain reconstructive procedures to some extent.

Links Between Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery

Despite their differences, the two categories are closely connected. Cosmetic surgery evolved as an extension of reconstructive techniques, and many procedures today blend goals of function and aesthetics, which can create gray areas in classification.

More Information

It's important to remember that while cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries share techniques, they have distinct indications. If you have questions about a procedure you're interested in, schedule a consultation with Dr. Z. Our patient experience stories demonstrate how we guide patients through both paths. Orlando board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Z specializes in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery and will guide you through every step of your journey.