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Why the "Plastic" in Plastic Surgery?
The word "plastic" comes from the Greek work plastikos, meaning "to mold or shape." History shows that the first plastic surgeries were developed to close intricate wounds or repair skin lost to injuries or illness. These surgeries often used skin flaps or grafts to mold or shape the skin to look like the original.
What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?
Cosmetic surgery is performed to reshape normal structures of the body, in order to improve the person’s appearance and self-esteem. Cosmetic surgery is usually not covered by health insurance.
Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body, caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors or disease. It is generally performed to improve function, but may also be done to approximate a normal appearance. Reconstructive surgery is generally covered by most health insurance policies, although coverage for specific procedures and levels of coverage may vary greatly.
Will I be able to tolerate the pain post-operatively?
Each patient will tolerate pain post-operatively in a different way. Appropriate pain medications are prescribed for the post-operative patients, and these help minimize discomfort.
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