What is Cosmetic Surgery?
Cosmetic surgery, also known as plastic surgery, is any type of procedure that reshapes the body, thereby improving appearance and self esteem.
Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
There are many types of cosmetic surgery procedures. Some of the most common plastic surgery procedures include:
- Breast augmentation
- Liposuction
- Facelift
- Tummy tuck
- Breast lift
- Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)
- Arm lift
- Brow lift
- Chin surgery
- Eyelid surgery
These types of cosmetic surgery procedures are generally not considered to be medically necessary, and are therefore not usually covered by health insurance.
Reconstructive Surgery Procedures
Sometimes, people tend to confuse elective cosmetic surgery with reconstructive surgery. However, these are two different types of plastic surgery procedures. Reconstructive surgery is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is used to correct congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, or the effects of disease. Common reconstructive surgery procedures include:
- Breast reconstruction after a mastectomy
- Breast reduction
- Cleft lip surgery or cleft palate repair
- Surgery for hand deformities, such as webbed fingers, or extra or missing fingers
- Skin grafts for burns, lacerations, or growths
- Birthmark removal
Most health insurance plans will cover reconstructive surgery, although specific coverage may vary.
References
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons