At West Houston Plastic Surgery Clinic, board-certified surgeons Dr. Alfonso Barrera and Dr. Eric Ruff can explain your options to help you choose what makes the most sense for your needs.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery differ:
What Is Reconstructive Surgery?
Reconstructive plastic surgery is performed to repair areas of the body affected by trauma, illness, birth defects, or other medical conditions. We typically do these procedures to restore normal appearance and function, not just to change how something looks.
Some common examples include:
- Breast reconstruction after mastectomy or lumpectomy
- Skin cancer reconstruction
- Facial reconstruction after an injury
- Scar revision surgery
- Correction of chest wall deformities
- Fat injections in areas with fat loss due to injury, illness, or congenital conditions
These surgeries are usually deemed medically necessary and may be covered by insurance. Patients who undergo reconstructive surgery may be healing from something deeply personal, and this physical restoration can be a key part of that process.
What Is Cosmetic Surgery?
Cosmetic plastic surgery is elective, meaning people choose it for personal reasons rather than medical ones. These procedures enhance specific features to improve appearance and confidence.
Examples of cosmetic surgery include:
Insurance does not usually cover cosmetic procedures, especially if they are for aesthetic reasons only.
We’ll Help You Make an Informed Choice
It’s helpful to know which type of surgery you’re considering because it can change the way you plan and pay for it. Procedures like rhinoplasty or breast reduction aren’t always one or the other. They often fall somewhere in between, depending on what they’re addressing.
If you are unsure where your needs fit in, Dr. Barrera and Dr. Ruff are happy to walk you through your options. To schedule a consultation and learn more, call West Houston Plastic Surgery Clinic at 713-468-5200.
