Plastic Surgery vs Cosmetic Surgery: What's the Difference?

In this episode, we explore the often-confused terms "plastic surgery" and "cosmetic surgery," unpacking their definitions, training pathways, and scopes of practice. While these terms are frequently used interchangeably, there are important distinctions that prospective patients should understand. Plastic surgery encompasses both reconstructive and aesthetic procedures, and board-certified plastic surgeons undergo extensive training in both areas. Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, focuses solely on enhancing appearance and may be practiced by physicians from a variety of backgrounds, not all of whom are trained in plastic surgery. Our goal is to provide a respectful and informative look at why these differences matter—particularly when patients are choosing a provider for aesthetic procedures. We'll discuss how board certification, specialty training, and surgical expertise contribute to patient safety and outcomes, and why informed decision-making is crucial in this space. This episode is designed to clarify, not criticize, helping listeners better navigate the language of aesthetic medicine.