What
is the difference between a plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon?
Plastic surgeons are specifically trained
in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. This training usually consists
of three to five years of general surgery and an additional two to three
years of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Plastic surgeons are
board eligible or board certified by the American Board of Plastic
Surgery. This certification confirms that the physician has the
required training to conduct the various cosmetic and reconstructive
techniques. He or she will also usually have surgical and
admitting privileges at local hospitals.
Cosmetic surgeon is a generic term
referring to any physician who desires to perform elective or cosmetic
surgery. He or she may actually be a family physician, OB-GYN,
dermatologist, ENT, or some other designation. A medical license
gives a doctor the ability to practice any type of medicine.
Although these physicians may not have surgical privileges for plastic
and reconstructive procedures at local hospitals, it is legal to perform
these procedures in an office setting. There is no guarantee that these
physicians have completed a surgical residency in plastic surgery.
What
are your fees for (name a cosmetic procedure)?
Each patient has various
needs which make a procedure unique. Our fees are based on
the amount of work involved, anesthesia and operating room time, and
supplies or devices required. After your evaluation by the doctor,
we will provide you with a written quote.
A word of caution.
When comparing fees from various physicians, make sure the price or fee
is all inclusive. Some physicians advertise a "physicians
fee", which does not include operating room or other
expenses. Our quotes represent the total cost of your
procedure. If there may be additional costs, which is unusual, we
will advise you in advance and give you an estimate.
