Different Types of Plastic Surgery
October 9, 2008
Plastic surgery have become more acceptable in society these days, but most still do not understand much about it. It is not just for celebrities. There are actually different forms. You know elective surgery, but there is also reconstructive.
Reconstructive plastic surgery is not what most of us would think. It is not liposuction or a facelift. It is surgery done to fix a physical ailment such as burns on the skin. The goal is to return the body to as normal a state as possible.
Sometimes, this type of surgical procedure will include broken limbs and skin grafting methods. Reconstructive surgery also includes the reattachment of toes and fingers; the addition of prostheses; or the manipulation of knees, limbs, and teeth.
A closer look reveals the field of reconstructive plastic surgery is actually very large. Cleft palate repair fits the classification as does breast reconstruction, microsurgery and contracture surgery to name only a few.
Elective plastic surgery is the type of procedure most people associate with the field. Think of the celebrity who suddenly has lips that look like two pillows. Elective plastic surgery is a voluntary attempt to alter the body to improve the appearance of the patient.
Cosmetic surgery includes mammoplasty, facelifts, and rhinoplasty. Men usually opt for cosmetic surgery in the form of tummy tucks, facelifts, eyelid surgery, and hair transplants. Women tend to seek out breast procedures, botox, nose surgery, facelifts, chemical face peels, and a number of other surgeries.
In order to find out whether or not you can qualify for cosmetic surgery, you must visit with a licensed surgeon in order to go through a consultation. This surgeon will be able to tell you if your goals are realistic or not. Most will use before and after software to give you an estimate of the change.
What about price? Well, there is good and bad news. If it is a reconstructive procedure, insurance should cover it. If you are doing elective surgery, you are on your own. Make sure to get a written estimate of all costs so you know what is involved if it is elective
A quick word of caution with plastic surgery. You are making alterations to your body that will be permanent. Now is not the time to be cheap. Never shop for a surgeon by price. Cut corners in other parts of your life, not here.
Whether we are talking about reconstructive or cosmetic procedures, plastic surgery is one are of medicine where major advancements have been made. Take the time to educate yourself on the possibilities and then speak with a surgeon regarding your options.
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