As cosmetic surgeons, were sometimes asked the difference between a board certified cosmetic surgeon and a board certified plastic surgeon.
Cosmetic surgery is the specialty that deals with the surgical improvement of appearance.
While plastic surgeons often include cosmetic surgery as a part of their practice, their specialty is much broader and normally focuses on reconstruction, treatment of injuries and burns, tumor surgery as well as cosmetic surgery. Managed health care has had a large impact on the practice of plastic Surgery. With lower reimbursement from insurance companies, many plastic surgeons are turning to cosmetic surgery to supplement their income. To further these efforts, their professional organizations have developed extensive advertising and public-relations campaigns to convince the public that plastic surgeons offer services that are superior to others. Cosmetic surgeons recognize that by totally dedicating their practice to the specific area of cosmetic surgery, they are better able be to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide patients with the best advice and care.