If you’ve ever wondered whether "cosmetic surgery" and "plastic surgery" are the same thing—you’re not alone. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are important distinctions between the two. At NH Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Nicholas Houlis, a double Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon with over 14 years of training and experience, helps patients understand these differences so they can make confident, informed decisions.

Understanding the Core Difference

At a glance, here’s how cosmetic surgery differs from plastic surgery:

• Primary Focus:
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Enhancing appearance
  • Plastic Surgery: Restoring form and function
• Training:
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Post-residency cosmetic fellowship
  • Plastic Surgery: Reconstructive surgery residency
• Purpose:
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Elective, aesthetic procedures
  • Plastic Surgery: Often medically necessary
• Common Procedures:
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Botox, liposuction, facelifts, breast augmentation
  • Plastic Surgery: Burn repair, trauma reconstruction, cleft palate repair

Cosmetic surgery focuses on improving aesthetic appeal, symmetry, and proportion. It’s generally elective and performed on healthy parts of the body. Plastic surgery, on the other hand, includes reconstructive procedures to repair physical defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns, or disease.

Why This Difference Matters

While both types of surgery aim to improve quality of life, the training paths, goals, and procedures involved are very different. Knowing the distinction helps patients choose the right surgeon for their needs. Dr. Houlis brings his cosmetic training and eye for detail to every procedure—offering both surgical and non-surgical enhancements designed for natural-looking results.

What Is Cosmetic Surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is focused solely on enhancing your appearance. Procedures are typically not covered by insurance and are chosen by the patient to achieve their personal goals. Examples include:

• Breast Augmentation
• Tummy Tucks
• Liposuction
• Facelifts
• Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping)
• Non-surgical treatments like Botox and dermal fillers

Cosmetic surgeons complete additional post-residency training that focuses solely on aesthetic procedures.

What Is Plastic Surgery?

Plastic surgery is primarily reconstructive. It restores function and form to areas affected by trauma, illness, or congenital defects. Examples include:

• Breast reconstruction post-mastectomy
• Cleft lip and palate repair
• Scar revision surgery
• Burn treatment
• Hand surgery

Plastic surgeons often work closely with other medical professionals in a hospital setting and are trained to handle more complex reconstructive procedures.

Meet Dr. Nicholas Houlis – Expert in Cosmetic Surgery

At NH Cosmetic Surgery in MetroWest Orlando, Dr. Nicholas Houlis stands out for his dedication to safety, artistry, and patient care. He is double Board-Certified and brings over 14 years of experience in both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments.

Patients choose Dr. Houlis not only for his technical expertise, but also for his approachable style and commitment to natural-looking results. From breast augmentation to non-invasive facial treatments, Dr. Houlis takes the time to educate, plan, and personalize each treatment.

How to Choose the Right Surgeon for You

When deciding between cosmetic and plastic surgery—or determining which specialist to trust—consider these tips:

• Check Board Certification – Look for board-certified credentials in cosmetic surgery or plastic surgery
• Review Before & After Photos – See real patient outcomes to understand the surgeon’s aesthetic style
• Ask About Their Specialty – Choose a surgeon who focuses on the procedure you’re interested in
• Look for a Personal Connection – Comfort and trust are key to a positive experience and great results

What Procedures Are Offered at NH Cosmetic Surgery?

Dr. Houlis and his team specialize in:

• Breast Augmentation and Lifts
• Tummy Tucks
• Liposuction (including Awake Lipo)
• Facelifts and Neck Lifts
• Non-Surgical Options: Botox, Fillers, Microneedling, Laser Treatments

Their MetroWest Orlando location makes it convenient for patients in Dr. Phillips, Windermere, and the surrounding Orlando areas.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All

While plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery share some techniques, their goals are very different. The right choice depends on your individual needs—whether that’s restoring function or enhancing your appearance.

If you’re looking to explore your cosmetic options with a highly trained and trusted expert, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nicholas Houlis at NH Cosmetic Surgery. With a patient-first approach, advanced technology, and artistic precision, you’ll be in excellent hands.

Ready to Learn More? Visit www.nhcosmeticsurgery.com or call today to schedule your personalized consultation in MetroWest Orlando.