By definition, “plastic surgery” is a field of medical specialty that focuses on the alteration, replacement, or restoration of visible portions of the body, performed to correct a structural or cosmetic defect or imperfection, utilizing both surgical and non-surgical procedures.
Although commonly associated with the practice of aesthetic/vanity surgery such as face lifts, tummy tucks, and breast enlargement, plastic surgery today also includes a number of related procedures including craniofacial surgery, skin cancer treatment, microsurgery, laser skin resurfacing, breast reconstruction, and numerous other types of surgery.
While it is true that many general surgeons are well-qualified to perform similar surgical procedures, non-plastic surgeons are not specifically trained in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, and not certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or American Society of Plastic Surgeons. And it is for this very reason that individuals considering breast plastic surgery need to know specifically the type of training and certification a prospective surgeon has received.
Even though the terms “plastic surgery” and “cosmetic surgery” are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, there is actually a significant difference between ‘plastic’ and ‘cosmetic’ surgeons among members of the medical community; each carrying significantly different weight.
While plastic surgeons are trained in both cosmetic as well as reconstructive surgery, “cosmetic” surgery is considered a non-specific, general term that in some cases may refer to procedures provided by a legitimate plastic surgeon, but could also refer to those offered by surgeons not formally trained and certified in plastic surgery methods but who nonetheless offer such services–often with disastrous results. Therefore, surgeons who use the term “cosmetic surgeon” or “aesthetic surgeon” are generally regarded as most likely not board certified plastic surgeons, and not qualified to perform breast plastic surgery.
To become board certified as a plastic surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (one of only 24 accredited specialty boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties), a surgeon must complete intensive instruction in an accredited training program and pass a series of rigorous written and oral exams. (There are a number of other board certification organizations in the US with “aesthetic” or “cosmetic” in the title, none of which are recognized by the ABMS and do not have the same meticulous training requirements.) The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, for example, is not recognized by the ABMS because it requires no prerequisite training in plastic surgery.
The choosing of a plastic surgeon to perform a breast surgery procedure is, for many, one of the most important decisions of their lifetime. With emotional, aesthetic, medical, as well as practical issues to consider, it’s important to know that your health and well-being is in the hands of the best-qualified medical professional; one who’ll take your concerns to heart and do their utmost to help you achieve your goals and aspirations. For a consultation on Breast augmentation Pittsburgh PA also our sister website visit www.la-beleza.com
And although there are many skilled, well-trained plastic surgeons in the US who can help you achieve these goals and aspirations, finding the right one for you may require a considerable investment of time and thoughtful consideration. Health experts suggest that before you settle on one, you shop around, make plenty of enquiries, and contact the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Medical Specialties to verify a prospective physician’s board status, experience, and qualifications.
