What is the difference between reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery?
Although there is some overlap between the two types of surgery, there is a difference. Reconstructive surgery is surgery done to improve function or to create or recreate a normal appearance. It is done to correct problems stemming from birth defects, disease, or accidents. Cosmetic surgery is done to improve the appearance of someone who is otherwise normal. It is done to make someone look better. You can think of reconstructive surgery as surgery that you need and cosmetic surgery as surgery that you want, but don’t absolutely need. In general, health insurance companies will cover reconstructive surgery, but not cosmetic surgery. Some plastic surgery procedures may be both reconstructive and cosmetic. A rhinoplasty (nose job) may be needed to help improve breathing by straightening structures inside the nose, and this may also improve appearance at the same time.
