Q: What’s the difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery?

A: Plastic surgery is a specialty some doctors enter after medical school, so they can offer both reconstructive surgeries, which return injured body parts back to normal, and cosmetic surgeries, which take normal body parts and enhance them. An example of reconstructive surgery would be the creation of a new breast for a woman who had a mastectomy, whereas cosmetic surgery would be a woman who had a breast augmentation to enhance her shape and appearance. The same comparisons apply to the face and rest of the body. Some plastic surgeons offer both, whereas some only offer cosmetic surgery, due to its profitability and popularity. It’s important to note that for the same reasons, many non-plastic surgeons offer and perform cosmetic surgery. When looking for a doctor, do your research online, gather as much information as you can, ask questions, get referrals, and of course, meet the doctor.
—Arnold Almonte, FACOS, DO, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 
The Almonte Center
1420 Blue Oaks Boulevard, Suite 100, Roseville, 916-771-2062, dralmonte.com