This page contains answers to common questions handled by our support staff.

Why is it called Plastic Surgery?

The word "plastic" comes from the Greek word plastikos, which means "shape" or "form." The phrase "plastic surgery" simply indicates that our medical specialty involves the shape and form of the human body.

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What is Plastic Surgery?

Plastic surgery is a surgical specialty dedicated to reconstruction of facial and body defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns, and disease. The art and science of plastic surgery is also involved with the enhancement of the appearance of a person through such operations as facelift, rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and liposuction.

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What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is performed to reshape normal structures of the body in order to improve the patient's appearance and self-esteem. Cosmetic surgery is usually not covered by health insurance because it is elective.

Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body, caused by congential defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors or disease. It is generally performed to improve function, but may also be done to approximate a normal appearance. Reconstructive surgery is generally covered by most health insurance policies although coverage for specific procedures and levels of coverage may vary greatly.

There are a number of "gray areas" in coverage for plastic surgery that sometimes require special consideration by an insurance carrier. These areas usually involved surgical operations which may be reconstructive or cosmetic, depending on each patient's situation. For example, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) - a procedure normally performed to achieve cosmetic improvement may be covered if the eyelids are drooping severely and obscuring a patient's vision.

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Is Plastic Surgery right for me?

The ideal candidate for aesthetic surgery is an individual who recognizes a specific area in which his or her appearance could be improved and has a strong personal desire to make a change. Whatever your reasons for choosing aesthetic surgery, it is important to have realistic expectations.

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How does smoking affect Plastic Surgery?

Smoking interferes with healing after surgery, particularly in the cases of breast reduction, facelift, "tummy tuck," and other procedures that involve the creation of skin "flaps."

Smoking constricts blood vessels and decreases blood flow all over the body. Even more important, the carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke greatly reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, which is essential for wound healing. Smoking slows healing, and if a skin "flap" was used, the wound may not heal at all.

If you cannot give up smoking for one to two weeks before and after the operation, your surgeon may want you to rethink your decision to have plastic surgery.

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What about Fees & Insurance?

Fees for cosmetic plastic surgery generally are paid prior to surgery. Costs vary widely and depend on the complexity of the operation, where the surgery takes place and which anesthetic is administered.

As a rule, cosmetic plastic surgery is considered "elective surgery" and is not covered by most insurance plans. Some operations that have a significant functional aspect - such as breast reduction, if the weight of your breasts causes pain or interferes with normal activities - may be considered reconstructive rather than cosmetic. Check with your plastic surgeon, who may recommend that your insurance company be contacted before surgery to determine whether coverage is available.

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