What is cosmetic surgery? Is there a difference between cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery?

Most people equate “cosmetic surgery” with “plastic surgery”, however, they are two separate specialty areas and the terms are not interchangeable. Confusion about the terms has led to public misconceptions about the two specialties.

Cosmetic surgery is the surgery of appearance. It is elective and focuses on the esthetics of beauty. Plastic surgery, on the other hand, focuses on repair and reconstruction of facial and body defects due to damage from birth disorders, trauma, burns, and disease.

Cosmetic surgeons are dedicated to the art of cosmetic surgery. Dr. Kozar’s strong knowledge base in musculoskeletal anatomy, his high level of training and 22 years of surgical experience makes him among the most qualified to perform safe and proper cosmetic procedures. Through his experience, Dr. Kozar offers a unique, compassionate, multi-disciplinary approach to patient care that brings breadth and depth of expertise to the field. Dr. Kozar is an associate member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). He is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. It is important to note that physicians develop their cosmetic surgical skills through post residency training and professional experience. Residency programs do not typically provide extensive training in cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgeons stay on top of the latest advances in technology and procedures through special training and continued advanced medial education. Smartlipo laser technology and liposuction under tumescent local anesthesia (widely regarded as the best types of lipodistrophy procedures) were developed by cosmetic surgeons.

Dr. Kozar views patient safety as a #1 priority. He utilizes tumescent local anesthesia in an office setting. This type of numbing procedure is not only much safer than traditional general anesthesia, it allows the typically high cost of a hospital visit to be avoided altogether!