What is plastic surgery?
Plastic surgery is a surgical sub-specialty that deals with the healing and restoration
of patients with injury, disfigurement or scarring resulting from trauma, disease
or congenital defects. It includes aesthetic, or cosmetic surgery to correct or
rejuvenate facial and bodily features not pleasing to the patient. Derived from
Greek,
the word plastic means molding or giving form and does not refer to the use
of plastic materials.
What's the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?
Cosmetic surgery is performed to reshape normal structures of the body in order
to improve the patient's appearance and self-esteem. Cosmetic surgery is usually
not covered by health insurance because it is elective.
Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body, caused by
congential defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors or disease.
It is generally performed to improve function, but may also be done to approximate
a normal appearance. Reconstructive surgery is generally covered by most health
insurance policies although coverage for specific procedures and levels of coverage
may vary greatly.
How long is the recovery period and when can I return to work?
The length of time it takes to recuperate after plastic surgery varies depending
on the procedure performed and the person operated on. Most patients will require
assistance for the first two days. Then most patients are able to care for themselves,
but may still need assistance if they have small children to care for. The specific
lengths of disability are outlined
here by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, by procedure. These are
approximations, and do not include return to exercise.
For more detailed information on plastic and reconstructive procedures, visit the
website of the American Society of Plastic
Surgeons, or visit our Patient Information & Resources
page.
Whether you're looking for more information on breast augmentation, liposuction
or nose surgery, you probably have questions and concerns about the procedure you're
considering. You are not alone - you're among millions of people each year opting
for surgical enhancement.
Dr. Siciliano consults with a patient.