Get a Specialist
Check a Specialist
Cosmetic Procedures
Contact Us

Average costs of cosmetic
surgery

Insurance Coverage

Common Medical Terms

Choosing a Board Certified
Plastic Surgeon:

- societies
- credentials
- privileges
- training
- experience

Resources
 
 
  A B C D E G L M R S T
B - C - D
  Burn Reconstruction
 
  A procedure undertaken after recovery from an acute burn. Usually involving a series of complex operative procedures to restore form and function to disfigured portions of the body.  
     
  Cartilage  
  A body tissue characterized by its low blood supply, ability to maintain shape & small number of cells dispersed in a matrix of material produced by those cells. There are different types of cartilage that have different properties, such as flexibility. Cartilage forms the central layer of the ear, the tip of the nose & the common wall between the nasal airways. This type allows the ear and nose to maintain their shape and yet remain flexible. A nonflexible cartilage covers the ends of bones on joint surfaces and allows smooth non-painful range of motion.  
     
  Cellulite  
  Common term used to describe the uneven pitted surface or dimpling of the skin commonly seen on the thighs of women. It is common in women, is rarely seen in men, and begins at various ages. Cellulite may or may not be improved, and may even be made worse, by liposuction. Endodermologie may help but the effect is usually temporary.  
     
  Cleft lip  
  A birth defect involving a separation in the upper lip. It causes disfigurement and makes feeding more difficult. Repair is performed to close the opening and create a normal lip and nose.  
     
  Collagen  
  Major protein of connective tissue, bone, cartilage, skin, tendons, and scar tissue. When a wound or incision heals, collagen fibers are created by cells near the wound. These fibers are crosslinked or weaved, in effect strengthening the sealing of the wound so the edges do not come apart. Thus if collagen production is insufficient, wounds do not heal. If it is overproduced, unsightly scars such as keloids can be formed.  
     
  Collagen/Fat Injectable Fillers
 
  A plastic surgery technique involving the injection using collagen or fat. Used to correct wrinkles, depressions in the skin, and/or scarring and lip augmentation. See also soft tissue augmentation.  
     
  Cosmetic contouring
 
  Reshaping the natural teeth to make them straighter or more youthful in appearance.  
     
  Cosmetic dentistry
 
  Field of dentistry dedicated to the art and science of enhancing a person's smile, overall appearance, and oral health.  
     
  Cosmetic plastic surgery (Also called aesthetic plastic surgery)
 
  One type of plastic surgery performed to reshape otherwise normal structures of the body, primarily to improve the patient's appearance and self-esteem.  
     
  Decalcification  
  The loss of calcium from teeth. This weakens teeth and makes them more susceptible to decay. Usually appears as white spots at the gum line or between the teeth.