Sometimes people are curious about why it is called "plastic surgery." The term "plastic" derives from the Greek word "plastikos", meaning "to mold" or "to give form." Plastic surgery falls into two categories: cosmetic (sometimes called aesthetic) and reconstructive surgery.

• Cosmetic Surgery is performed to reshape normal structures of the body in order to improve appearance and self-esteem.

• Reconstructive Surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body (caused by injury, disease, or birth defects) to improve function or to approximate a more normal appearance. Reconstructive procedures are generally considered medically necessary and are usually covered by insurance while cosmetic procedures are not.