Choosing Between a Plastic Surgeon and a Cosmetic Surgeon: Why Training Matters

When it comes to enhancing your appearance through surgery, choosing the right surgeon is crucial. Many people use the terms plastic surgeon and cosmetic surgeon interchangeably, but there are significant differences between these two types of professionals, especially regarding their training and qualifications. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about whom to trust with your aesthetic goals.

Understanding the Distinction

Plastic Surgeon: Plastic surgeons are trained to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. They complete a rigorous educational pathway that includes medical school, a residency in plastic surgery (typically 6 years), and often a fellowship to specialize in specific areas of plastic surgery. This extensive training covers a wide range of procedures that restore function and appearance to various parts of the body, often following trauma, illness, or congenital disabilities.

Cosmetic Surgeon: Cosmetic surgeons focus on aesthetic procedures that enhance appearance through surgical and non-surgical techniques. The path to becoming a cosmetic surgeon can vary significantly—many are trained in disciplines like dermatology, ophthalmology, or otolaryngology (ENT), and later they pursue additional training in cosmetic procedures. However, this training might not be as comprehensive or specialized in surgery as that of plastic surgeons.

Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon?

1. Comprehensive Training: Plastic surgeons undergo extensive training that includes all aspects of body and facial surgery. This deep dive into complex reconstructive and cosmetic procedures during their residency equips them with a profound understanding of anatomy, surgical techniques, and patient care.

2. Board Certification and Fellowships: Plastic surgeons are eligible for board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), which requires meeting rigorous standards of education, ethics, and examination. Furthermore, many plastic surgeons, like Dr. John Aker & Dr. Di Beckman, complete additional fellowships in specific areas such as aesthetic plastic surgery, enhancing their expertise in the latest techniques and treatments.

3. Range of Procedures: Given their broad training, plastic surgeons are qualified to perform a wide range of procedures—from minimally invasive treatments to major reconstructive surgeries. This capability ensures that they can provide comprehensive care, adapting their approach to meet each patient’s unique needs and aesthetic goals.

4. Safety and Standards: Plastic surgeons are trained to prioritize patient safety and operate in accredited facilities. Their comprehensive education includes handling unexpected complications and ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

Conclusion

Choosing a surgeon for your aesthetic needs is a decision that goes beyond the procedure itself—it’s about trusting someone who has the highest level of training and understands the complexities of the human body. Plastic surgeons offer a level of expertise and training that is unparalleled, especially those who have completed fellowships in aesthetic plastic surgery. For those considering aesthetic procedures, opting for a plastic surgeon like Dr. Aker & Dr. Beckman, who are fellowship-trained and specialize in plastic surgery, offers peace of mind that you are in capable and highly skilled hands.

Making an informed choice will not only help you achieve the best aesthetic results but also ensure a safe and successful surgical journey.