What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?
Cosmetic plastic surgery is performed to enhance or change a healthy, normal, functioning part of the body. Nothing but the patient’s desire for physical improvement necessitates cosmetic plastic surgery. Reconstructive surgery, however, is intended to correct a physical abnormality caused by a birth defect, disease or tumor, physical trauma, or infection. The goal of reconstructive surgery may be to restore function or to achieve physical normality.
