Plastic Surgeon

A surgeon, who can correct deformity, scars and disfigurement caused by accidents, birth defects and treat diseases like skin cancer (melanoma), is called a plastic surgeon. A plastic surgeon also performs surgeries purely based on cosmetic purposes, e.g. rhinoplasty. The first plastic surgeon of the U.S. was Dr. John Peter Mettauer who performed his first surgery of cleft palate in the year 1827. Plastic surgeons perform various levels of surgeries on human body to beautify and restructure it. The main surgeries performed by plastic surgeons:

Reconstructive surgeries: The most common surgeries in the reconstructive section are breast reconstruction, palate surgery, cleft lip, surgery for patients suffering from burns called contracture surgery. Another technique called microsurgery is performed where tissue is transferred from one place to another where tissue is damaged and needs replacement.

Cosmetic surgery: The most famous and common surgery in the area of plastic surgery is cosmetic surgery and is performed purely from beautification point of view. Cosmetic surgery also known as aesthetic surgery is done just to enhance the beauty of any part and may possibly be a reconstructive surgery. The surgery improves the beauty or looks of any part of the body and is usually referred with the name of that particular part of the body. For e.g. Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck - reconstruction of the abdomen), Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) - application of permanent eyeliner or reshaping the eyelids.

Cosmesis: Another common procedure called as cosmesis is a blend of reconstructive plastic surgery and cosmetic plastic surgery. In the process of reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery techniques are utilized thus improving cosmesis.

In addition to these branches of plastic surgery, there are also surgeries such as craniofacial surgery - mainly dealing with pediatric deformities, maxillofacial surgery - improvement of the jaw and the face.

The risk of handing over your beauty lies with the plastic surgeon. Ensure your surgeon is

• Certified by a board, e.g. American Board of Plastic surgery.
  
• The surgeon is rightly qualified, cross check his qualifications with the right body. He should have completed medical school and then specialized for five years in the field of general surgery and then plastic surgery. After this should have cleared oral and written examinations held by the board.
  
• Has the right infrastructure and facilities to handle surgeries. They should be well-equipped with the latest gadgets and facilities thereby making the procedure easy.
  
• Has enough experience in the field of plastic surgery.

Latest trends in plastic surgery

• Use of lasers and fiber optic telescopes to in the field has led to better results and satisfying customers. The outcome of the surgery is more enduring than earlier times.
  
• This method has made plastic surgery more economical and trouble-free as a result reduced side effects.
  
• An endoscopic method for facelifts and forehead corrections.
  
• Modern techniques mean smaller incisions and practically no scars left behind after the surgery.
  
• Also modern sedation techniques like the intravenous sedation save a lot of trouble and risk for the patients.
  

Otolaryngologist

Also known as otorhinolaryngolongists or ENT specialists, otolaryngolongists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose and throat. After completing medical school, a one year residency in general surgery is compulsory further followed by four years of residency in otolaryngology. Being specialists in the ENT organs, otolaryngolongists perform the following functions:

• Primarily treat disorders related to ear, nose, and throat.
  
• Treat conditions like sinus and problems with nasal cavities by either prescribing medicines or performing surgery.
  
• They treat allergies and help improve the shape and look of the nose (rhinoplasty).
  
• They treat hearing problems, ear infections, balance disorders of the ears, tinnitus (ear noise), cranial nerve disorder etc.
  
• They treat conditions like sleep apnea.
  
• They cure tonsils either through medication or surgery, they treat throat disorders including voice and swallowing disorders.

Modern techniques used in the field of otolaryngology

ENT field has seen a lot of innovations in use of equipment and technology, modern methods have paved avenues for better treatment methods.

• Modern equipment have paved ways for these specialists to perform reconstructive surgeries for nose, jaw, ear and facial areas.
  
• RAST (radio-allergosorbent-test) is used for curing allergies.
  
• Technique called the skin endpoint titration is used to cure allergies.
  
• Endoscope technique is used to treat sinus and other blockages.
  
• Modern audio logic equipment is used to diagnose and treat hearing problems.

Guide to choose the right otolaryngologist

• Ask your family physician to refer to the right specialist.
  
• Check if the specialist you have chosen is certified by an authorized board.
  
• Check if the hospital where your specialist practices has the required infrastructure and modern equipment needed for your treatment.