The Difference Between a Plastic Surgeon and a Cosmetic Surgeon

If you are among the many individuals contemplating how to address concerns about your physical appearance, you are not alone! Whether you desire a more youthful face or a sculpted body, the world of plastic and cosmetic surgery offers various solutions to help you achieve your desired look. NuBody Concepts is a Tennessee-based cosmetic surgery center with board-certified plastic surgeons and an array of life-changing procedures to help you embrace your physical appearance. We are committed to providing understanding about these surgical procedures, empowering you to make well-informed decisions regarding your aesthetic goals. With practices in Nashville and Memphis, our comprehensive range of surgical options cater to your unique situation, helping you feel more confident in your skin. 

What Is Different Between Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery?

The world of aesthetic enhancement can be perplexing, especially when understanding the distinction between plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery. According to a report shared by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 87 percent of individuals surveyed needed clarification about the difference between cosmetic vs. plastic surgery

Plastic Surgery: Reconstructive and Cosmetic Aspects

Plastic surgery encompasses two main categories: reconstructive (commonly referred to as plastic) and cosmetic procedures. Reconstructive surgery works to restore functionality and appearance to patients suffering from congenital disabilities, medical conditions like breast cancer, various types of cancer, or trauma caused by accidents or injuries. Skilled plastic surgeons with extensive training perform these procedures to address complex issues and bring normalcy to patients’ lives.

Reconstructive or plastic surgery includes operations like breast reconstruction after breast cancer.

Cosmetic Surgery: Enhancing Aesthetics and Self-Confidence

Conversely, cosmetic surgery aims to enhance a person’s overall appearance by reshaping and adjusting existing anatomy to achieve a more visually appealing result. Cosmetic procedures are elective, and many individuals seeking aesthetic improvements to boost their self-confidence and well-being pursue them. While cosmetic surgery may be considered less medically necessary than reconstructive procedures, it requires high skill and expertise to deliver safe and satisfactory outcomes. It also offers numerous benefits to a person’s sense of self and overall appearance appreciation. 

Like any medical procedure, plastic and cosmetic surgeries carry potential risks. Our experienced team at NuBody Concepts prioritizes patient safety. We conduct thorough evaluations to determine each individual’s most suitable treatment plan. We strive for transparent communication with our patients. During an initial consultation, we ensure you understand the risks and benefits to make an informed decision.

The Importance of Board Certification in Plastic Surgery

Given the confusion surrounding the terms “aesthetic,” “cosmetic,” and “plastic” surgeons, it is essential to emphasize the significance of board certification. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, government regulations do not legally restrict medical providers from advertising themselves as an aesthetic, cosmetic, or plastic surgeon, regardless of their qualifications. This lack of regulation creates potential risks for patients seeking non-board-certified professionals to perform elective procedures. 

If you are looking for a cosmetic surgeon vs. plastic surgeon, it’s essential to look for a surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. At NuBody Concepts, we mainly focus on cosmetic surgery procedures, but we use board-certified plastic surgeons to ensure safety and premium care for our patients. Both our plastic surgeons, Dr. Mark Peters (Memphis) and Dr. John Rosdeutscher (Nashville), are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, so you can trust that you are in good hands. Board-certified plastic surgeons undergo extensive training and have in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, including the location of nerves and blood vessels. This expertise ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care and minimizes the potential for complications during procedures.

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons at NuBody Concepts

The distinction between plastic and cosmetic surgeries lies in their purpose and desired outcomes. Whether you require reconstructive surgery to address functional issues or cosmetic surgery to enhance your appearance, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is vital. With a qualified professional, you can confidently approach your life-changing procedure, knowing you will receive the highest standard of care. 

At NuBody Concepts, we take pride in our team of highly trained and board-certified surgeons. Our plastic surgeons each have over 25 years of experience and undergo extensive education and training. Likewise, our medical support team is well-versed in the latest non-surgical techniques, providing patients with innovative and effective treatments.

Here are some of the available options offered by the board-certified plastic surgeons at NuBody Concepts:

  • Breast augmentation is a popular procedure aimed at enhancing breast size and shape. Our board-certified plastic surgeons at NuBody Concepts guide you through the process, discussing your options for implant types and incision methods. Breast implant surgery starts at $5,500 at NuBody Concepts, and prices vary based on your individual needs and implant preference. Recovery typically involves some downtime, but our experienced surgeons will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
  • A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, targets excess skin and fat around the abdomen, resulting in a firmer and flatter midsection. Whether you’ve experienced weight loss or post-pregnancy changes, a tummy tuck can help you achieve a more aesthetic silhouette. NuBody Concepts offers competitive pricing for this transformative procedure, starting at $10,500. 
  • A facelift is a good option if you seek a more youthful appearance. This procedure reduces wrinkles and sagging skin, contributing to an overall younger look. Our cosmetic surgery plastic surgeons use advanced facelift techniques to provide natural-looking results. The cost of a facelift starts at $9,500 and can vary based on your unique requirements.
  • Non-surgical facelifts are another cosmetic procedure provided by our board-certified plastic surgeons. These are a less invasive approach to facial rejuvenation. Our non-surgical facelift treatments typically involve dermal fillers, Botox, or RFAL skin tightening to reduce fine lines and restore youthful contours. The price for non-surgical facelifts is generally more affordable than for traditional facelifts and ranges widely depending on the type of procedure. 

At NuBody Concepts, we understand the importance of looking and feeling your best. Our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Mark Peters (Memphis) and Dr. John Rosdeutscher (Nashville) are both certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and they are ready to help you achieve your cosmetic goals safely. Schedule a consultation with NuBody Concepts at our Nashville or Memphis locations to discuss your options and determine a plan that works for you. We can address your concerns and tailor a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and desires. Trust NuBody Concepts for exceptional results and a more beautiful you!


Each patient is unique. What your treatment will look like is determined by you and the plastic surgeon who you will meet with in a personal consultation.