Cosmetic surgery is performed to reshape normal structures of the body in order to improve the patient's appearance and self-esteem. Cosmetic surgery is usually not covered by health insurance because it is elective. Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body, caused by congential 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. There are a number of "gray areas" in coverage for plastic surgery that sometimes require special consideration by an insurance carrier. These areas usually involved surgical operations which may be reconstructive or cosmetic, depending on each patient's situation. For example, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) - a procedure normally performed to achieve cosmetic improvement may be covered if the eyelids are drooping severely and obscuring a patient's vision.

The following brief discussions regarding the selected topics represent just an introduction to these procedures. The best way to address your particular concerns is to make an appointment and fully discuss a particular procedure.

When reviewing information about specific plastic surgery procedures, it is important to understand that the circumstances and experience of every individual are unique. If you are considering plastic surgery, please ask your plastic surgeon for further information about the particular procedure and what you can expect.

Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery is very popular in America today, but it remains a serious decision that requires careful consideration. You should feel comfortable with your surgeon and your understanding of the proposed procedure(s) before embarking on the process.

Among the questions you should ask yourself prior to having cosmetic surgery, are the following:

1.) What are your goals or desires regarding cosmetic surgery and are they realistic?
2.) Can you devote sufficient time to researching the procedure, to having the procedure done, and to your recovery time?
3.) Do you have any medical or general health/emotional problems that need to be considered? Could this increase the risk of surgery?
4.) Can you afford the cost of the surgery?
5.) Have you checked into the credentials and experience of the surgeon and have you gotten several opinions?

Dr. Jerry L. Lugger and the staff at the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Centre of the Southwest strongly suggest that you carefully review these questions and select a surgeon that is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Find out more about certified surgeons at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) Web site (www.plasticsurgery.org)

What do I need to know about Reconstructive Surgery?

Reconstructive surgery is usually performed to restore or enhance a region or portions of the body which has been affected by disease such as cancer or infection, or by trauma or congenital/developmental problems.

These procedures are often covered by insurance, however, if there is some doubt, they can be predetermined with the insurance carrier. The plastic surgeon often uses his expertise in aesthetic surgery to enhance the results of his reconstructive efforts: in this case, form and function can go hand in hand.