When most people start exploring cosmetic procedures, they come across two terms: cosmetic surgeon and plastic surgeon. At first glance, the titles may seem interchangeable, but they actually reflect very different training backgrounds, areas of focus, and practice priorities.

At NH Cosmetic Surgery & Aesthetics in MetroWest Orlando, serving patients from Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Ocoee, and Winter Garden, Dr. Nick Houlis is uniquely qualified to speak on this topic. With more than nine years of advanced surgical training—including residencies and fellowships in general surgery, plastic surgery, hand surgery, and cosmetic surgery—he has firsthand knowledge of both worlds.

In this blog, we’ll break down:

• The core differences in training between cosmetic surgeons and plastic surgeons
• What this means for patients choosing a surgeon
• How to decide which type of surgeon is right for you

Plastic Surgeon Training: Reconstruction First

Plastic surgery as a specialty developed primarily around reconstruction and repair. Plastic surgeons spend much of their training working on:

• Burn victims
• Trauma patients
• Breast reconstruction following cancer
• Corrective surgeries for congenital conditions

While some plastic surgeons go on to practice cosmetic procedures, the majority of their early experience and education is centered around reconstruction rather than elective aesthetics.

Cosmetic Surgeon Training: Aesthetics From Day One

By contrast, cosmetic surgeons dedicate their training exclusively to aesthetic procedures. During fellowship, cosmetic surgeons focus on treatments such as:

• Breast augmentation and breast lifts
• Liposuction and body contouring
• Facelifts and eyelid surgery
• Tummy tucks and mommy makeovers

This kind of focused training allows cosmetic surgeons to gain extensive, hands-on experience in the elective procedures patients most often request.

Dr. Houlis, for example, has performed thousands of aesthetic surgeries, from breast enhancements to advanced liposuction techniques like awake liposuction, which allows patients to remain comfortable without general anesthesia.

Why Training Background Matters

So why should patients care about these differences? Simply put: expertise comes from experience.

• A plastic surgeon may be highly skilled in reconstruction but have limited exposure to cosmetic cases during training.
• A cosmetic surgeon, on the other hand, has spent years performing aesthetic procedures exclusively, building deep familiarity with surgical nuances, recovery expectations, and patient outcomes.

Dr. Houlis’ Unique Path

Dr. Houlis brings a rare perspective because he trained in both fields:

• General surgery residency
• Plastic surgery residency
• Hand surgery fellowship
• Cosmetic surgery fellowship

With over nine years of surgical training (compared to the typical 5–6 years), he combines the technical precision of plastic surgery training with the aesthetic expertise of cosmetic surgery specialization.

How to Choose the Right Surgeon for You

Credentials and training are important—but equally critical is your comfort level with your surgeon. During your consultation, ask yourself:

• Did they answer all my questions?
• Did they listen to my concerns?
• Do they seem professional, honest, and compassionate?
• Do I feel like a valued patient—not just another procedure?

At the end of the day, the right surgeon is one who not only has the technical expertise but also makes you feel confident and cared for.

Watch the Video: Cosmetic Surgery vs. Plastic Surgery

Dr. Houlis explains this topic in more detail in our latest YouTube video:

👉 Cosmetic Surgery vs. Plastic Surgery: What’s the Difference?

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re considering a cosmetic procedure, your first step is to meet with a qualified surgeon who can guide you through your options safely and honestly.

📍 Conveniently located in MetroWest Orlando, serving Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Ocoee, and Winter Garden.
📞 Call (407) 985-1500 or request your consultation online.

Final Thoughts

Plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons share some similarities, but their paths diverge in training, experience, and focus. For patients seeking aesthetic enhancements—whether it’s breast surgery, liposuction, a facelift, or non-surgical treatments—the specialized background of a cosmetic surgeon can offer a higher level of confidence and expertise.

At NH Cosmetic Surgery & Aesthetics, Dr. Nick Houlis is proud to provide the skill, compassion, and experience patients deserve.