The terms cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery are often used interchangeably, and many people simply don’t think there’s a difference between the two terms. However, while the two terms can cover many different procedures there is one major difference; and that is that plastic surgery is essential, while cosmetic surgery is something that the patient chooses to have done. Generally, plastic surgeons take on more complex tasks and have a lot more training, so they’re a better choice if you want either type of procedure. Some more information on the differences can be found below.
What is plastic surgery?
Plastic surgery is defined as surgery that’s essential, and can be carried out after an accident, on those who have suffered a disfiguration since birth, or on those who have had surgery.
Some examples of plastic surgery include:
- Skin grafts
- Skin Cancer excisions- including Melanoma
- Cleft palate correction
- Breast reconstruction – for example, after a mastectomy
- Craniofacial surgery
- Hand surgery and wrist surgery- for example carpal tunnel & dupuytren’s contracture
If you are considering plastic surgery, then it’s important to find the right surgeon to carry out the procedure. When looking for a plastic surgery clinic, you should check the surgeons’ credentials. It takes around five years post medical degree to become a plastic surgeon, and in order to practice they need to work to Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) standards.
Cosmetic surgery
Cosmetic surgery is any surgery that’s non-essential, and is done for aesthetic, rather than essential reasons. Anyone who wants cosmetic surgery done can choose to have it, although they’ll need to show they’re of sound mental and physical health when they undergo the procedure. If you’re looking for a cosmetic surgery clinic, then it’s worth checking the credentials of the surgeon. Technically, anyone with a basic medical degree can do cosmetic surgery, but you’re more likely to get the result you want if you visit a qualified plastic surgeon.
Some examples of cosmetic surgery include:
- Breast augmentation
- Tummy tucks
- Face lifts
- Liposuction
- Body lifts
While a lot of places carry out these sorts of procedures, it’s important to go with one that’s reputable, and have surgeons with years of experience to carry out your cosmetic procedure so that you can be sure you’re in safe hands, and you get the best result.
Choosing a clinic
When looking for a clinic for cosmetic or plastic surgery, take a look at the surgeon’s credentials. They should have FRACS after their name, which means they’re Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Clinics should also be members of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, which means they’re accredited by the government to ensure you get the highest quality of care. If you’re still unsure, then ask to see some before and after photographs of previous surgery. This will show the sort of results you might be able to achieve, and the calibre of surgeon employed by the clinic.
If you are looking for cosmetic or plastic surgery in Perth, then Sculpt Surgery offer many different procedures. Simply call (08) 6389 1322 today to find out more.