The journey to a stronger confidence and a sharper look begins way before getting to your doctor’s office. Most of the time, it starts when you see your reflection in the mirror and wish for a small tweak. In other cases, it initiates when you realize that past trauma or other anomalies are hindering your self-esteem. The next step? Understanding exactly what you need. And in order to do that, grasping the difference between plastic and cosmetic surgery is key.
Many times, when talking about certain types of surgeries, plastic and cosmetic can be used as synonyms—because, in some contexts, they are. However, it’s not always the case, and their distinction is key for several procedures.
At Northeastern Plastic Surgery in Florham Park, New Jersey, we believe a fiercer confidence will transform how you approach life, and we want to help you achieve that. We perform a variety of both plastic and cosmetic surgeries that are tailored to your specific needs, goals, and situation.
Dr. Joseph Fodero has put together this guide to help you understand how these two categories work and relate to each other, and which one is the perfect fit for you.
3 Key Differences Between Plastic Surgery vs Cosmetic Surgery
Definition
There are three different types of surgeries that alter the appearance of your body:
Plastic surgery is a broad term that encompasses those procedures that seek to restore, reconstruct, or alter your body in some way. It can improve the function and appearance of the treated areas. Generally speaking, it is divided into two categories: reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery.
Reconstructive surgery is often used to restore your body after an illness, an injury, or to correct any defects you might have been born with or developed over time. Depending on the case, they might be voluntary or necessary for proper functioning. Some examples of reconstructive procedures are:
|
|
Alternatively, cosmetic surgery refers to those procedures that are made to aesthetically enhance a certain part of the body. They are voluntary and elective, and respond to aesthetic principles such as symmetry, balance, or proportion. Usually, insurance won’t cover cosmetic procedures as they aren’t considered critical for the patient’s well being.
Some of the most common cosmetic procedures in the U.S. are:
You might be wondering: and what about injectables? Botox, Dysport, Restylane, etc, are considered cosmetic procedures, but not surgeries—which is why we aren’t including them in this list. Nonetheless, they also enhance the appearance of your face and other parts of your body. Learn all about our injectable options.
Training & Certifications
While they can overlap on certain procedures, the required training for plastic surgery vs cosmetic surgery is different. Plastic surgery training tends to be longer, since they learn how to perform both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
If you’re looking for the best possible care, your plastic surgeon must be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, as it requires medical school and residency specialized training.
For cosmetic surgery, the training is acquired through a post-residency fellowship, and they may get board-certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. If that’s the case, they will also have a primary board certification in their residency area.
Once you choose your surgeon, you’re putting your life and expectations in their hands, which is why it is crucial to make sure they have the necessary resources, experience and knowledge to deliver the best possible results.
Procedure Types and Characteristics
Reconstructive and cosmetic surgery not only differ on the results they deliver, but also on the process behind them. Generally speaking, reconstructive procedures are more complex, take longer, and have extended recovery periods.
On the other hand, many cosmetic procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis and are varied when it comes to their aftercare. For example, breast surgery or liposuction will need further downtime than a brow lift. This doesn’t mean that cosmetic surgeries are necessarily simple, but it will all come down to the specific enhancement you choose.
The Overlap
There are several procedures that can be performed by the same type of specialist. Not only that, but certain surgeries can technically have the same name but serve a different purpose depending on the patients and their particular history.
For instance, this is the case for rhinoplasty, as it can be done to:
- Enhance the natural shape of your nose
- Reconstruct parts of your nose after an injury
- Fix or mend unsuccessful previous surgeries

If you’re looking for options for either reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, it’s important that you consider the qualifications and specialty of your surgeon, while also being very clear on what you’re envisioning for yourself.
Enhance and Restore Function at Our New Jersey Practice
If you have been dreaming of looking your best, the first step is to know exactly what you want and need. That’s why understanding the key differences between plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery is crucial on your journey.
Still have some doubts in your mind? At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, we understand that big changes start with clear decisions and tranquility. Our friendly and experienced staff will take the time to get to know your needs and answer any questions you might have.
Enjoy being you like never before and make an appointment at our New Jersey practice by calling (973) 295-6565 or using our online scheduling tool.