Plastic surgery is a medical specialty that involves the reconstruction, restoration, or alteration of the human body to improve function or appearance. It encompasses both reconstructive surgery, which restores function and appearance after injury, disease, or congenital issues, and aesthetic (cosmetic) surgery, which focuses on enhancing a person's appearance according to their desires. Here's an overview of the field:

Types of Plastic Surgery

1. Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery is typically performed to restore normal function or appearance following an injury, illness, or birth defect. Common examples include:

  • Burns: Reconstructing tissue damaged by burns, restoring both function and appearance.
  • Cleft Lip and Palate Repair: Surgery to correct congenital deformities of the lip and palate.
  • Breast Reconstruction: Following mastectomies (removal of breast tissue due to cancer), reconstructive surgery can restore the shape of the breast.
  • Hand Surgery: Addressing congenital or acquired deformities of the hand, often to restore function.
  • Facial Reconstruction: Surgery to repair facial trauma, such as fractures or disfigurements, often involving bone and tissue grafts.
  • Scar Revision: Minimizing the appearance of scars from injury or surgery.

2. Aesthetic (Cosmetic) Surgery

Aesthetic surgery, also known as cosmetic surgery, focuses on enhancing or altering appearance for aesthetic reasons Plastic Surgery in General. Some of the most common procedures include:

  • Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery): Altering the shape of the nose to improve appearance or function (e.g., correcting breathing issues).
  • Facelift (Rhytidectomy): Tightening and lifting facial skin to reduce signs of aging.
  • Breast Augmentation: Increasing breast size using implants or fat transfer.
  • Liposuction: Removing excess fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or arms to contour the body.
  • Botox and Fillers: Minimally invasive injections to reduce wrinkles, add volume to the face, or restore youthful contours.
  • Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area after weight loss or pregnancy.