What to know before your first procedure ...

WHAT IS PLASTIC SURGERY?

The word plastic refers to the reshaping or reforming of an object, which is the essence of plastic surgery. It has little to do with "plastic" material as the word is commonly used today. Modern plastic surgery dates back to the World War I era, although some procedures were performed as early as 1000 B.C. Plastic surgery is really a collection of techniques used to reconstruct or reshape areas of the body.

Plastic surgery can be divided into two main areas: Reconstructive and Aesthetic (commonly known as cosmetic). Reconstructive surgery seeks to return a damaged or deformed part to normal function and appearance, while cosmetic surgery attempts to correct or improve unattractive or disharmonious features as well as to remove some of the conspicuous marks of aging. Some surgery is both reconstructive and cosmetic, such as correction of a nasal deformity after injury in order to improve both breathing and appearance.

Most insurance companies will help defray the cost of reconstructive surgery, but practically all aesthetic surgery is considered elective and is not generally reimbursed by insurance companies.

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