What is the difference between medical aesthetics and plastic surgery?
Sep 10, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Han Xuefeng
Introduction
Generally speaking, medical aesthetics and plastic surgery differ in terms of safety, cost, and treatment scope. Medical aesthetics, short for medical cosmetology, refers to the use of medical methods—including medications and devices—to repair and reshape the body's external appearance, coloration, and physiological functions for the purpose of enhancing beauty. Plastic surgery, formally known as reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, is a surgical specialty focused on restoring or reshaping bodily structures.
In general, medical aesthetics and plastic surgery differ in terms of safety, cost, and treatment scope. Medical aesthetics, short for medical cosmetology, refers to the use of medical methods—such as medications and devices—to repair and reshape the body's external appearance, coloration, and physiological functions to achieve cosmetic goals. Plastic surgery, formally known as reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, primarily involves surgical procedures to repair, reconstruct, and reshape malformed or damaged tissues and organs, aiming to restore or improve both function and appearance.
Item |
Medical Aesthetics |
Plastic Surgery |
Example Image |
|
|
Method |
Non-surgical approaches using medications, devices, etc., to alter the body’s external appearance, pigmentation, and physiological functions |
Surgical procedures to repair and reconstruct trauma, diseases affecting skin, muscles, bones, and other tissues |
Safety |
Generally safe, lower risk, recovery period typically 2–6 months |
Higher risk, recovery period usually over six months |
Duration of Results |
3 months to 1 year, depending on the procedure |
5 years or even permanent |
Cost |
500–30,000 CNY |
2,000–100,000 CNY |
Treatment Scope |
Suitable for individuals seeking non-surgical improvements in appearance |
Suitable for individuals requiring surgical repair and reconstruction |
When making a decision, individuals should choose reputable medical aesthetic or plastic surgery clinics based on their personal conditions and needs, and select an appropriate treatment plan under professional medical guidance.
