Introduction:
Plastic Surgery is the surgical specialty dedicated to the restoration, reconstruction, correction, and improvement of form and function of structures of the human body. The word "plastic" derives from the Greek plastikos, meaning to mould or shape — reflecting the specialty's core philosophy of reshaping tissue to restore normal appearance and function. Plastic surgery encompasses two broad domains: Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, which corrects defects caused by trauma, burns, cancer resection, congenital anomalies, or disease; and Cosmetic (Aesthetic) Surgery, which enhances normal structures to improve appearance and self-confidence. Reconstructive plastic surgery includes burns management, hand surgery, microsurgery (free flap reconstruction), craniofacial surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, breast reconstruction, skin cancer excision and reconstruction, and wound management. Cosmetic surgery encompasses rhinoplasty, facelift, blepharoplasty, breast augmentation and reduction, abdominoplasty, liposuction, body contouring, and non-surgical aesthetic treatments. Plastic surgeons also perform critical replantation of amputated digits and limbs, nerve repairs, and lymphatic surgery. The specialty demands exceptional anatomical knowledge, artistic vision, meticulous surgical technique, and a deep understanding of wound healing, tissue biology, and patient psychology.
Symptoms:
People may seek plastic or cosmetic surgery for physical discomfort, injury-related changes, birth defects, or appearance concerns.
Treatments:
Plastic and cosmetic surgery treatments help restore appearance, improve function, and enhance overall confidence and wellbeing.