Plastic surgeons in Washington DC

Plastic Surgeons in Washington, D.C.

Occupation
Names
Pronunciation
Occupation type	Medical Specialty
Activity sectors	Healthcare
Specialty
Competencies
Education required	Medical Degree, Residency in Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C. are medical professionals who specialize in performing surgical procedures to reconstruct or enhance the human body. This field of medicine is known for its focus on both aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, addressing both cosmetic concerns and medical conditions requiring surgical intervention.

Overview

Plastic surgery is a specialized branch of surgery that involves the restoration, reconstruction, or alteration of the human body. It can be divided into two main categories: reconstructive surgery and cosmetic (or aesthetic) surgery.

• Reconstructive surgery includes procedures that are performed to correct functional impairments caused by burns, traumatic injuries, congenital abnormalities, infections, and diseases. Common reconstructive procedures include breast reconstruction, cleft lip and palate surgery, and hand surgery.

• Cosmetic surgery is performed to enhance or improve the appearance of a body part. Common cosmetic procedures include rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), liposuction, facelift, and breast augmentation.

Training and Certification

Plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C., like elsewhere in the United States, must complete extensive training and education. This typically includes:

1. Undergraduate Education: A bachelor's degree, often with a focus on pre-medical studies. 2. Medical School: A Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. 3. Residency: A residency program in plastic surgery, which can last 6-8 years, covering both general surgery and specialized plastic surgery training. 4. Board Certification: After completing residency, surgeons can become board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) by passing rigorous exams.

Practice in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is home to a number of highly qualified plastic surgeons who practice in both hospital settings and private clinics. The city’s diverse population and its status as a political and cultural hub contribute to a high demand for both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.

Hospitals and Clinics

Many plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C. are affiliated with major hospitals such as MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, George Washington University Hospital, and Children's National Hospital. These institutions provide a range of services from complex reconstructive surgeries to elective cosmetic procedures.

Professional Organizations

Plastic surgeons in the area may be members of professional organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), which provide resources for continuing education and professional development.

Common Procedures

Some of the most common procedures performed by plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C. include:

• Breast Augmentation: Enhancing the size and shape of the breasts using implants or fat transfer.
• Rhinoplasty: Reshaping the nose to improve appearance or function.
• Liposuction: Removing excess fat deposits to contour the body.
• Facelift: Reducing signs of aging by tightening facial skin and tissues.
• Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen to improve its appearance.

Regulations and Ethics

Plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C. must adhere to strict ethical guidelines and regulations set forth by medical boards and professional organizations. Patient safety, informed consent, and realistic expectations are paramount in the practice of plastic surgery.

Also see

• Cosmetic surgery
• Reconstructive surgery
• American Board of Plastic Surgery
• MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
• American Society of Plastic Surgeons