Plastic Surgery Sub-Specialties

Plastic and reconstructive surgery is a broad field, and may be subdivided further. Plastic surgery sub-specialty training includes mastery of the following:

• Craniofacial surgery

This sub-specialty mostly revolves around the management of pediatric congenital anomalies, such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, and other disturbances in facial growth and development. Since these children have multiple issues, the best approach to providing care to them is an interdisciplinary approach which also consists of  neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists and geneticists.

• Hand surgery

Plastic and reconstructive surgeons receive training in hand surgery, with some trainees deciding even to do an additional full-year hand fellowship afterwards. In particular, plastic and reconstructive surgeons receive training in microvascular surgery, which is needed to replant an amputated digit or hand. Many types of hand operations (such as reconstruction of injuries, replantations, rheumatoid surgery and surgery of congenital defects) are performed by plastic surgeons.

• Aesthetic or Cosmetic Surgery

While both aesthetic surgery and reconstructive plastic surgery deal with improving a patient's body, the overarching philosophies guiding the training, research, and goals for patient outcomes are different. The procedures, techniques, and principles of aesthetic surgery are completely focused on enhancing a patient's appearance. Aesthetic surgery can be performed on all areas of the head, neck, and body. As the treated areas function properly, aesthetic surgery is elective. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons may decide to master advanced cosmetic surgery training after completion of their formal training programs.

• Pediatric Plastic Surgery.

Children are often confronted with medical issues unique from the experiences of an adult patient. Many birth defects or syndromes present at birth are best managed in childhood, and pediatric plastic surgeons specialize in treating these conditions seen in children. Many of them have additional training in pediatric care. Disorders commonly treated by pediatric plastic surgeons include craniofacial anomalies, cleft lip and palate, and congenital hand deformities. 

• Burn Surgery

Plastic surgeons who prefer to treat patients with deformities caused by burn injury may work in specific burn care centers.