When considering cosmetic surgery, selecting the right surgeon is just as important as choosing the procedure itself. There are many types of plastic surgeons, each with specialized training and expertise in different areas of the body. If you’re interested in procedures involving the face, it’s important to understand the distinctions between an oculofacial plastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon, and general plastic surgeon to make the best choice for your needs.
In this blog, we will break down the differences between these specialists, the procedures they commonly perform, and how to determine which one is best suited for your aesthetic goals.
Understanding the Different Types of Plastic Surgeons
1. Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon
Specialization:
An oculofacial plastic surgeon is a highly trained physician specializing in both ophthalmology (the study of the eyes) and plastic surgery related to the structures around the eyes, the forehead, the face and the neck.
Education & Training:
- Four years of medical school
- Four years of medical internship and residency in ophthalmology
- Additional fellowship training (2 years) in the highly specialized field of oculofacial plastic surgery
Common Procedures:
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) – Removes excess skin or fat from the eyelids
- Facelifts – Tightens and smooths facial skin
- Neck lifts – Reduces sagging skin under the chin and neck
- Forehead and Eye Brow lifts – Elevates sagging brows and forehead for a refreshed look
- Ptosis repair – Corrects drooping eyelids
- Eyelid reconstruction – For trauma or tumor removal
Who Should See an Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon?
- Anyone experiencing cosmetic issues with upper eyelid drooping or heaviness, baggy lower eyelids, forehead furrowing or functional issues with their eyelids
- Individuals seeking the most highly trained specialist to enhance the appearance of the eyelids, forehead, face and neck
2. Facial Plastic Surgeon
Specialization:
A facial plastic surgeon focuses exclusively on aesthetic and reconstructive procedures for the face, head, and neck. Their training often stems from otolaryngology (ENT – ear, nose, and throat medicine), allowing them to specialize in procedures that improve both form and function of facial structures.
Education & Training:
- Four years of medical school
- Two years of general surgery, followed by three years residency in otolaryngology/head and neck surgery
- Additional fellowship training (1–2 years) in facial plastic surgery
Common Procedures:
- Facelifts – Tightens and smooths facial skin
- Eyelid lifts (blepharoplasty) – Similar to those performed by oculofacial plastic surgeons
- Neck lifts – Reduces sagging skin under the chin and neck
- Chin and jaw augmentation – Improves facial contours
- Otoplasty (ear surgery) – Adjusts ear shape and position
Who Should See a Facial Plastic Surgeon?
- Patients wanting to enhance their facial appearance, particularly the nose and chin.
- Those seeking specialized knowledge in head and neck surgery for both cosmetic and functional needs
3. General Plastic Surgeon
Specialization:
A general plastic surgeon is trained to perform aesthetic and reconstructive procedures throughout the body. Their expertise spans both facial and body procedures,, tummy tucks, liposuction, and more.
Education & Training:
- Four years of medical school
- Three years of general surgery + two years of plastic surgery training. Most of this training and experience involves treating patients hospitalized for severe burns and other traumas. Less exposure to cosmetic surgical procedures than the other specialties listed here
- Optional fellowship for advanced training in a subspecialty
Common Procedures:
- Breast reconstruction
- Burn management
- Liposuction and body contouring
- Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty)
- Mommy makeovers (combining multiple body contouring procedures)
Who Should See a General Plastic Surgeon?
- Patients with bad burns or severe bodily and facial disfigurement from trauma
- Breast reconstruction after cancer
- Those interested in full-body transformations including abdominal procedures
How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Your Needs
Now that you understand the differences, how do you decide which specialist is best for you?
✅ Consider the Procedure You Want
- If you need eyelid, forehead (eye brow), face or neck surgery an oculofacial plastic surgeon is the best choice.
- If you’re considering functional facial, nose or chin reconstruction, a facial plastic surgeon is the most specialized.
- If you want reconstruction of facial and body disfigurement, a general plastic surgeon will provide the most comprehensive options.
✅ Check Their Board Certification
- Look for surgeons certified by reputable boards, such as:
- The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- The American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS)
- The American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS)
✅ Review Before & After Photos
- Examining a surgeon’s past work can give you insight into their expertise and aesthetic style.
✅ Schedule a Consultation
- Meet with the surgeon to discuss your goals, ask questions, and assess their approach to your procedure.
Comprehensive Q&A Section
Q: How do I know if I need an oculofacial plastic surgeon instead of a general plastic surgeon?
A: The general plastic surgeon is the least specialized of the surgical specialists listed. Their primary exposure in training is hospital based and most of their case load involves rehabilitation of burn patients and severe disfigurement following trauma. If your primary concern is around the eyes,the eyelids, the forehead, the face and the neck, an oculofacial plastic surgeon has specialized training in these areas and will provide the most precise results.
Q: Can a facial plastic surgeon perform a facelift better than a general plastic surgeon?
A: Both facial plastic and oculofacial plastic surgeons focus solely on the face and neck, so they often have a more in-depth understanding of facial anatomy and greater experience and training in these areas. However, a board-certified general plastic surgeon can be the best choice to recover from facial burns and face and bodily disfigurement following trauma..
Q: Can a general plastic surgeon perform the same procedures as a facial plastic surgeon?
A: Yes, many general plastic surgeons perform facelifts and other facial procedures. However, if you’re only interested in facial enhancements, a specialist in facial plastic surgery such as an oculofacial plastic surgeon or a facial plastic surgeon may be the better choice.
Q: What is the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon?
A: A plastic surgeon undergoes residency training primarily in reconstructive procedures, while a cosmetic surgeon is specifically training in cosmetic and aesthetic treatments. Always look for board certification to ensure proper credentials.
Q: How do I choose the best surgeon for my cosmetic goals?
A: There may be good surgeons in your area in any of the three specialties listed. Consider the surgeon’s specialization, board certification, and experience. One of the most important ways to choose would be to carefully examine before-and-after results to ensure you receive the best care for your needs. And perhaps the single most important factor of all is to choose a doctor with whom you feel comfortable. Choose one who you believe has the right training and experience and who listens carefully to your concerns and what areas you want improved. Choose the doctor you believe will help improve the areas which concern you.
Contact Tampa Bay Cosmetic Surgery Center
If you’re considering cosmetic surgery in St. Petersburg, FL, our expert team at Tampa Bay Cosmetic Surgery Center is here to help. Whether you’re interested in facial enhancements, body contouring, or reconstructive procedures, we offer personalized consultations to guide you in choosing the best approach for your aesthetic goals.
📍 Address: 6025 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33703
📞 Phone: (727) 522-3223
Schedule your consultation today to begin your transformation!