Which Is Best for You - A Cosmetic Surgeon or Plastic Surgeon?

If you are considering a cosmetic change should you undergo a procedure with a cosmetic surgeon or a plastic surgeon? Plastic surgeon Dr. Andrew Ordon weighs in on how people looking to go under the knife can make the safest and best choice.

So what is the difference between these two types of surgeons?

"Plastic does not equal cosmetic," Dr. Ordon says, explaining that many plastic surgeons perform cosmetic surgeries, but he says any doctor can call themself a "cosmetic" surgeon. He explains a doctor can do this without going through the same residency training as a plastic surgeon. 

For example, he says an emergency room doctor could attend a short training session and then begin doing fillers, liposuction, and laser treatments and then refer to themself as a "cosmetic surgeon." Dr. Ordon notes the years of training he completed is vital, particularly if there is ever a problem or issue that occurs during a procedure.

"You want someone who has been trained... that knows how to do it," he says, telling Dr. Ian Smith that patients should only have a procedure done with a surgeon that does it on a regular basis.

He also says while it may be more expensive to see a board-certified plastic surgeon, he feels someone who has years of training will be able to better address any issue that may arise.

Before having a procedure, he suggests patients ask if they are board-certified, and explains you can verify a doctor's credentials at The American Board of Plastic Surgery and The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

The Doctors remind anyone considering an elective surgery that there is always some level of risk -- like any surgery -- and to always do your homework first.

Watch: The New Cosmetic Procedure Gaining Popularity during COVID

Watch: The Best Procedures for Your Money with Dr. Andrew Ordon