The Distinction Between Plastic Surgeons and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Understanding the difference between a plastic surgeon and a maxillofacial surgeon is crucial for individuals seeking medical care related to the head, neck, and facial structures. While both professionals are skilled in performing surgical procedures, their areas of specialization and the focus of their work set them apart significantly.
Plastic Surgeons: Versatility and Aesthetic Focus
Training: Plastic surgeons typically complete a residency in plastic surgery after medical school. This training may include both reconstructive and aesthetic cosmetic procedures, providing a broad skill set that extends beyond just cosmetic enhancements to include surgical repairs and reconstruction.
Focus: Their primary focus includes reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. This means they are trained to reconstruct defects in the body, such as those caused by trauma, congenital issues, or cancer, as well as perform procedures aimed at improving the appearance, such as breast augmentation, facelifts, and liposuction.
Scope: The areas in which plastic surgeons work are comprehensive, often including both the face, breasts, abdomen, and extremities. This broad scope allows them to address a wide range of issues, from managing the effects of burns to enhancing body contours through cosmetic modifications.
Maxillofacial Surgeons: Specialized Facial and Oral Procedures
Training: Maxillofacial surgeons typically begin with a dental degree, either a DDS or DMD, and then complete a surgical residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This training prepares them extensively for surgical interventions in the head, neck, and facial regions.
Focus: They specialize in surgical procedures related to the face, jaw, and mouth. These procedures range from treating facial trauma and correcting jaw misalignments to dental implant surgery and addressing conditions such as cleft palates. Maxillofacial surgeons also handle issues related to the functional integrity of the facial skeletal structures.
Scope: The work of maxillofacial surgeons is more focused on the head, neck, and facial structures. While they may deal with issues affecting the body to a lesser extent, their primary focus is on maintaining the structural integrity and functional capability of the facial skeletal and soft tissues.
Key Differences in Specialization
In summary, while both plastic surgeons and maxillofacial surgeons may perform procedures that affect the face, the breadth of their practice differs significantly. Plastic surgeons have a broader focus that includes cosmetic and reconstructive surgery throughout the body, whereas maxillofacial surgeons concentrate specifically on the oral and facial regions, often with a background in dental care.
Understanding these distinctions is important for patients seeking medical care. For those primarily focused on facial aesthetics, a plastic surgeon might be the best choice. For those dealing with more specific, functional issues affecting the head, neck, or jaws, a maxillofacial surgeon is more appropriate.
William Behrbom: An Expert in Craniofacial Surgery
William Behrbom, a maxillofacial surgeon with 40 years of experience, emphasizes the importance of specialization in craniofacial surgery. His expertise in this field allows him to address a wide range of complex issues with precision and skill.
Dr. Behrbom comments, 'Maxillofacial surgeons deal with oral surgeries, such as wisdom teeth removal, and pre-prosthetic surgeries, as well as oral pathology. We also provide skin procedures on the face and neck, including blepharoplasty, rhytidectomy, and Botox. Plastic surgeons, however, do not perform these oral surgeries, though some may offer face-lifts and similar procedures. Both professions have unique areas of expertise that complement each other in providing comprehensive medical care.'
For more information on the distinctions between plastic surgeons and maxillofacial surgeons, and to find a specialist in your area, visit reputable medical websites and consult with professionals directly. Understanding these differences can significantly influence the outcome of any surgical procedure, ensuring a successful and safe treatment process.
Keywords: plastic surgeon, maxillofacial surgeon, craniofacial surgery