Plastic surgeons practice a variety of medical procedures to improve and change the appearance of the human body. These procedures can be broadly divided into two main categories: reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. The latter focuses on addressing issues related to facial appearance and reconstructive surgery involves the reconstruction of damaged areas of the body.
Reconstructive surgeries are performed on damaged parts of the body and may include skin grafts, bone grafts, and implant replacements. This kind of surgery can help improve a patient’s appearance, minimize scarring, and restore a patient’s lost body parts. These procedures can also help cancer patients regain their self-esteem and dignity. Most plastic surgeons perform reconstructive surgeries in hospitals, clinics, or medical facilities.
Plastic surgeons often perform cosmetic procedures on Hollywood celebrities. People are also increasingly turning to plastic surgeons for a variety of reasons. Some are seeking a corrective surgical fix due to a physical deformity or discomfort. Other procedures, like a gastric bypass or liposuction, are designed to help people lose weight quickly and effectively. However, these procedures are more risky than dieting and should only be considered in extreme situations.
Resident training in plastic surgery requires a minimum of three years of clinical training. The final two years of education must be dedicated to plastic surgery, and cannot be satisfied by rotation or a transitional year. This training also requires a MD or DO degree from an accredited medical school. In addition, graduates of foreign medical schools must present their final certification from the ECFMG.