When you start researching aesthetic procedures, you may notice providers calling themselves either plastic surgeons or cosmetic surgeons. At first glance, these terms sound interchangeable, but there are important distinctions that can impact your safety, results, and peace of mind. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I believe it’s essential to help you clearly understand these distinctions so you can make informed, confident decisions about your care.
So, what is the difference between a plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon? Here’s what you should know before moving forward.
Training and Certification
The most significant difference between a board-certified plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon is the extent of their training and credentials.
Plastic surgeons:
- Complete medical school
- Undergo a rigorous residency program in general surgery and plastic & reconstructive surgery—often six years or more
- Earn certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the only board for plastic surgery recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)
Cosmetic surgeons:
- May come from a variety of backgrounds (OB-GYN, dermatology, family medicine, general surgery, and others)
- Often complete only short courses, workshops, or a one-year fellowship in cosmetic surgery
- May hold certifications from boards not recognized by the ABMS
This difference in education and board certification means plastic surgeons have more extensive training in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, giving them a broader and deeper skill set.
Scope of Practice: Cosmetic vs Plastic Surgeon
When searching for the best plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon, another major distinction lies in the scope of procedures each performs.
Plastic surgery includes both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. Surgeons are trained to restore function and appearance after trauma, birth defects, or cancer surgery, in addition to performing elective cosmetic procedures.
Cosmetic surgery focuses exclusively on aesthetic enhancement and does not include reconstructive procedures.
In other words, all plastic surgeons are trained in cosmetic surgery, but not all cosmetic surgeons are trained plastic surgeons. That difference becomes critical if complications arise or during procedures that require advanced surgical skills.
Why Board Certification Matters
When choosing a surgeon, board certification matters. It’s one of the clearest indicators of safety, training, and credibility. Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery ensures that your surgeon has completed years of specialized training, adheres to the highest ethical standards, and maintains ongoing education.
Trusting your care to a board-certified plastic surgeon gives you confidence that your procedure will be performed with the highest level of expertise and patient safety in mind.
Expertise & Training You Can Trust
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to performing advanced aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
My training includes:
- A six-year residency in general and plastic surgery at Stanford University Medical Center
- A fellowship in cosmetic surgery with Lawrence B. Robbins, M.D. at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach
- Additional training in cleft lip and palate surgery in Tokyo and hand and microsurgery at San Jose Medical Center
Beyond training, I have served as a clinical instructor at Stanford University, deputy chief of plastic and reconstructive surgery at Stanford University Medical Center, and as a board member for organizations supporting breast cancer patients.
Patients have recognized me through multiple Patients’ Choice Awards and in the Best of Silicon Valley survey as “Best Plastic Surgeon.” I believe this reflects not only my technical expertise but also the trust and satisfaction of those I’ve had the privilege to treat.
If you’re in the process of choosing a plastic surgeon, I encourage you to review credentials, patient reviews, and before and after photos to understand the level of care and results you can expect.
Making an Informed Choice
The differences between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon may seem subtle at first, but they carry significant weight when it comes to your safety and satisfaction. Plastic surgeons have comprehensive training that covers both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, making them uniquely qualified to handle a wide range of procedures and outcomes.
If you’re considering an aesthetic procedure, take the time to verify your surgeon’s training and board certification. Doing so offers peace of mind and the likelihood of a safe, positive experience.
Ready To Take the Next Step?
I combine decades of advanced training, clinical experience, and a personalized approach to help my patients look and feel their best. If you are ready to discuss your options, I invite you to call my office today at (650) 325-1118 or request a consultation using the online form. Together, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your goals.
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