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Cosmetic Surgery and Procedures

Cosmetic surgery and procedures (also called plastic surgery) are techniques that change, restore, or enhance a person's appearance.

These techniques may be done to remove or reduce wrinkles, enhance or improve appearance, correct a birth defect, or reconstruct injured skin or improve body function resulting from burns or other trauma.

Common cosmetic surgeries and procedures include liposuction, breast enlargement or reduction, Botox injections, laser resurfacing, sclerotherapy to reduce varicose veins, rhinoplasty ("nose job"), and face-lifts. Finding a surgeon who is board-certified or has special training in cosmetic surgery and procedures is essential to a successful result.

Last Revised: August 4, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Keith A. Denkler, MD - Plastic Surgery

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