The primary difference between a Facial Plastic Surgeon and a Plastic Surgeon is their training. This affects the procedures that they specialize in. Plastic surgeons are trained in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the body, including the face. Facial plastic surgeons undergo training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, but exclusively in the face and neck region.
To explain more, premier New Jersey facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Agata Brys, delves into the differences between facial plastic surgeons and plastic surgeons. (LINK TO VIDEO)
The Difference Explained: Plastic Surgeons
Plastic surgeons typically complete a general plastic surgery residency, which covers a broad range of procedures, including breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction, and reconstructive surgery for trauma or cancer. They then obtain certification in plastic and reconstructive surgery through both the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery (AOBS). A candidate member can register his or her profile as a physician at both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
Facial Plastic Surgeons: A More Nuanced Education
Compared to plastic surgeons, becoming a facial plastic surgeon is much more nuanced; it’s a more specialized profession in which the surgeon focuses exclusively on facial structures. A facial plastic surgeon first becomes an Otolaryngologist, or Head and Neck Surgeon, and gains a complete, thorough knowledge of the head and neck, its structures, and its functions.
After a 5-year residency in head and neck surgery, a facial plastic surgeon undergoes additional fellowship training specifically in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. A facial plastic surgeon must be certified and verified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) and is typically also board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS).
As a result, a facial plastic surgeon is an ideal choice to perform facelifts, rhinoplasties, revision rhinoplasties, eyelid surgery, jawline augmentations, and other procedures of the face and neck, such as Mohs defect reconstruction after the removal of skin cancers.
About Dr. Agata Brys
Dr. Agata Brys is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS). She also received training in Hair Restoration surgery through a fellowship approved by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS). Her primary focus is on facial rejuvenation as well as functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty.
(INSERT A BEFORE AND AFTER OF A FACELIFT AND A RHINO HERE)
| Type of Surgeon | Focus | Training | Procedures | Specialization | Examples |
| Facial Plastic Surgeons | Face and neck, including cosmetic and reconstructive surgery | Residency in otolaryngology followed by a fellowship in facial plastic surgery | Rhinoplasty, facelift, eyelid surgery, & other procedures of the head and neck | A deeper understanding of facial anatomy, physiology, and aesthetics | Facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, brow lift, chin augmentation |
| General Plastic Surgeons | Any part of the body, including the face, breasts, abdomen, hands, or other extremities | Complete a general plastic surgery residency, covering a broad range of procedures | Breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction, reconstructive surgery for trauma or cancer | May not have the same level of specialized training or experience in facial procedures | Breast augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, reconstructive surgery for trauma or cancer, facelifts |
Choosing a New Jersey Facial Plastic Surgeon
Your face is a reflection of your inner beauty. It serves as a vital conduit for expressing your emotions, elevating your self-confidence, and enriching your overall well-being. As such, selecting a trusted facial plastic surgeon with extensive training and a strong commitment to delivering exceptional, natural-looking, aesthetic results is essential.
Enhancing your facial appearance is an exciting journey. Choosing Dr. Brys as your trusted partner by your side can make the process feel empowering and rewarding. As an expert in various surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures, Dr. Brys is your best choice for facial plastic surgery in New Jersey.
Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Brys Today!
Learn the difference a facial plastic surgeon can make in helping you renew your facial features and overall appearance. New Jersey’s premier facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Agata Brys, can help you boost your confidence with beautiful, natural-looking results based on your unique needs.Schedule your consultation with Dr. Agata Brys, one of New Jersey’s premier facial plastic surgeons, by calling (973) 394-1815 or completing our online form today!