What is Facial Plastic Surgery?
As defined by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, cosmetic surgery is a sub-specialty of medicine and surgery that uniquely restricts itself to the enhancement of appearance through surgical and medical techniques. Facial plastic surgery is specifically concerned with maintaining normal appearance, restoring it, or enhancing it. A cosmetic surgeon is a doctor who has completed their specialty in a particular area (i.e., ophthalmology) and has gone on to receive additional continuing medical education and training in the emerging specialty of cosmetic surgery.
Cosmetic plastic surgeons are dedicated to the art of cosmetic surgery. Their strong knowledge base, high level of training, and practical experience makes them among the most qualified to perform safe and proper cosmetic procedures.
What Are the Benefits of Working with an Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon?
An oculofacial plastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon and medical doctor) who has completed additional advanced training in plastic surgery as it relates to the eyes, face, and surrounding structures.
After college and four years of medical school, an oculofacial plastic surgeon must complete a one-year internship and a three-year residency in ophthalmology. After completing residency, two additional years are spent in advanced fellowship training in oculofacial plastic, orbital, and reconstructive surgery. Board certification by the American Board of Ophthalmology is required in order to complete fellowship training.
It is worth noting that the majority of general plastic surgeons complete five years of residency training, only two of which are devoted to plastic surgery. During these two years, the general plastic surgery resident must acquire skills in plastic and reconstructive surgery on all parts of the body. By contrast, oculofacial plastic surgeons spend two years concentrating only on the eyelids, orbit, and surrounding areas of the face. This gives the oculofacial plastic surgeon an unparalleled level of training and experience to deal with the complex issues involved in plastic surgery around the eyes.
