
Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgery is a medical specialty focused on reconstructing or altering the body's appearance and function. It encompasses two main types:
Reconstructive Surgery: This focuses on restoring function and normal appearance and is often done after trauma, illness, or birth defects. Examples include breast reconstruction after mastectomy, cleft lip and palate repair, and burn injury treatment.
Cosmetic (Aesthetic) Surgery: This focuses on enhancing appearance and is usually elective. Common procedures include rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), liposuction, facelift, and breast augmentation.
Plastic surgery can involve a variety of techniques, including skin grafts, tissue expansion, and free tissue transfer. It can significantly impact a patient’s physical and psychological well-being, with improvements in both self-confidence and quality of life being common motivations.