Abdominoplasty, overview · How you prepare · What to expect. Cosmetic plastic surgery includes both surgical and non-surgical procedures that improve and reshape body structures to improve appearance and confidence. Cosmetic procedures are elective, meaning that patients decide to undergo these procedures in areas of the body that do not require an improvement in their functioning. Cosmetic surgeons are trained in aesthetic principles and facial cosmetic surgeons, in particular, specialize in cosmetic procedures for the head, face, and neck.
While basic surgical training is acquired in residency, the specialty of cosmetic surgery is generally learned after residency through practical experience. Residency training in plastic surgery involves a series of mandatory plastic and reconstructive surgeries, of which cosmetic procedures and principles are part. General cosmetic surgeons can be certified by the American Board of Aesthetic Surgery (ABCS), while those who specialize in facial cosmetic surgery are certified by the American Board of Aesthetic Facial Surgery (ABFCS), which certifies cosmetic surgeons who specialize in cosmetic procedures of the head, face and neck. Women and those assigned to the female gender at birth undergo cosmetic surgery more frequently than men and those to whom they have been assigned male sex at birth.
While some plastic surgeons may apply for scholarships after residency to specialize in cosmetic surgery, no additional training is required to become board certified. Before any cosmetic surgery procedure, you'll meet with a healthcare provider, such as a cosmetic surgeon or plastic surgeon, for a consultation. Each type of surgeon receives different training, and while there are many trained and well-trained cosmetic and plastic surgeons, learning the difference can help you understand each surgeon's credentials and experiences. Ask your healthcare provider when you can expect to see results after a cosmetic surgery procedure.
If you have any questions about cosmetic surgery or your specific procedure, this is a good time to ask. Despite being informed and prepared, you may be surprised at the bruises and swelling that appear after cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgery board certification requires surgical training followed by extensive and documented cosmetic surgery experience. If the procedure you are looking for is aesthetic in nature, choosing a cosmetic surgeon means that your surgeon is focused on safely achieving a solid aesthetic result. Cosmetic surgery includes surgical procedures aimed at improving appearance, either by adjusting the proportions of the face or body, increasing certain features or improving symmetry.
Every year, cosmetic surgery procedures help millions of people feel more confident in their appearance. For example, cosmetic rhinoplasty is a highly sought after procedure that shares similarities with functional rhinoplasty, a procedure essential in the training of plastic surgeons.
