“Cosmetic surgeon” and “plastic surgeon”; these titles may sound like they mean the same thing, but in reality, they are quite different. There is a huge difference in the education and certification processes for cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery—board-certified plastic surgeons must undergo much longer, more involved training, essentially requiring them to become experts in their field before practicing.
At Zarrabi Plastic Surgery, patient education is extremely important to us, which is why we created this article as a resource to patients like you, so that you can understand the difference between a board-certified plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon, and what this means for you and your procedure.
Led by Dr. Michael Zarrabi, our team offers the gold standard of training and patient care. Dr. Zarrabi is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has completed advanced fellowships in complex procedures, including head and neck surgery, as well as surgery of the full body.
Dr. Zarrabi’s background gives him a level of surgical expertise that short-term cosmetic training cannot replicate. By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Zarrabi, patients ensure that they have years of specialized education, strict ethical standards, and a commitment to safety and excellence on their side.
To learn more, contact the Zarrabi Plastic Surgery team online or call us at (310) 584-9990.
Understanding Board Certification in Plastic Surgery
Board certification is one of the most important qualifications a surgeon can hold. A plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) has completed years of specialized surgical training after medical school, passed comprehensive written and oral examinations, and adheres to the highest standards of medical ethics and patient safety.
The ABPS is the only board that the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) allows to officially certify plastic surgeons in the United States. The ABMS is an umbrella organization that oversees 24 member boards, which ensure that physicians meet rigorous educational and professional standards before they can practice in their chosen specialties with real patients.
To achieve ABPS certification, surgeons must complete at least six years of surgical training. This is no easy feat! Training includes a residency specifically in plastic surgery, and candidates must demonstrate mastery in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, as well as a nuanced understanding of anatomy.
The Difference Between Plastic Surgeons and Cosmetic Surgeons
As previously mentioned, plastic surgeons undergo extensive education focused on both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. A cosmetic surgeon is typically a physician from any other specialty who has decided to add aesthetic treatments to their practice. Many of these practitioners are radiologists, internal medicine doctors, gynecologists, or dermatologists who have not completed formal surgical residencies. Their understanding of anatomy, tissue healing, and surgical safety is often limited to short-term or coursework rather than years of supervised training with a real expert.
Without the comprehensive training that board-certified plastic surgeons require, cosmetic surgeons may not be equipped to manage surgical complications or ensure the best results. The growing number of non-certified cosmetic surgeons has actually led to an increase in complications from poorly performed procedures. (4) Their patients may experience inconsistent results, scarring, infections, or the need for corrective surgery. In more severe cases, inadequate medical supervision during anesthesia administration or recovery can lead to life-threatening complications.
When choosing a surgeon, it is crucial to verify that they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You can confirm certification by visiting the ABMS website or the ABPS directory. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Zarrabi means placing your trust in a professional who has earned the highest credentials in the field.
Los Angeles Plastic Surgery Costs with a Board-Certified Surgeon
Board-certified plastic surgeons like Dr. Zarrabi invest heavily in equipment and patient safety measures. While some non-certified cosmetic surgeons may offer lower prices, these savings often come at the expense of experience and quality care. Choosing a board-certified surgeon ensures that your procedure is performed in an accredited surgical facility, with hospital-level safety standards and expert medical oversight.
In any case, the cost of your procedure will depend on the type of procedure and the complexity of your case. Dr. Zarrabi believes in full transparency with pricing, and he and his staff will provide a detailed cost estimate during your personal consultation.
Zarrabi Plastic Surgery also offers financing options for qualified patients, making high-quality, board-certified surgical care more accessible.
To get an estimate of what your procedure will cost, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Zarrabi by contacting Zarrabi Plastic Surgery online or calling (310) 584-9990.
About Dr. Michael Zarrabi
Dr. Michael Zarrabi is the board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who leads our team here. He earned his M.D. and graduated with multiple honors at the University of Saint Louis School of Medicine. He then completed rigorous surgical training, which included residencies and fellowships focused exclusively on plastic and reconstructive surgery.
After completing his fellowships, Dr. Zarrabi founded Zarrabi Plastic Surgery, where he combines his reconstructive expertise with his passion for aesthetic enhancement. His comprehensive training allows him to perform procedures that create beautiful, natural-looking results with functional support and safety. His patients always appreciate his attention to detail and his genuine care for their well-being before, during, and after surgery.
Dr. Zarrabi’s philosophy is rooted in transparency and trust. He takes time to educate patients about their options and ensures that every treatment plan aligns with their goals, anatomy, and lifestyle. He now has more than 20 years of experience and is constantly refining his techniques to give his patients the best care possible.
Call Zarrabi Plastic Surgery at (310) 584-9990 to schedule your personal consultation at either their Santa Monica or Beverly Hills location and discover the difference that true board certification can make in your results and your safety!
Procedures Offered at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery
At Zarrabi Plastic Surgery, patients rest assured that they are in the hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon when choosing from a wide range of both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Dr. Zarrabi’s experience and training in both cosmetic and reconstructive techniques ensure that every treatment precisely achieves lasting results. Some of the treatments that Dr. Zarrabi can perform include:
Body Contouring
Dr. Zarrabi performs procedures such as tummy tucks, liposuction, Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL), and lower and upper body lifts for patients who want to reshape and tighten their physique. These treatments are particularly popular among individuals who have lost significant weight or wish to restore firmness and balance to their figure. (1)
Breast Enhancement
From breast augmentation to breast lift and reduction, Dr. Zarrabi helps patients achieve proportionate, natural results when performing breast enhancement. His reconstructive training also allows him to perform breast revision surgeries for patients who have undergone prior operations elsewhere.
Facial Procedures
Zarrabi Plastic Surgery offers numerous facial rejuvenation surgeries, including facelifts, neck lifts, and eyelid surgery. Facial rejuvenation procedures continue to rank among the most common rejuvenation procedures, (2) and anyone seeking to revitalize their facial aesthetic should settle for nothing less than a highly qualified surgeon to ensure optimal outcomes.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For those who prefer minimally invasive options, Zarrabi Plastic Surgery offers injectable treatments such as Botox and injectable fillers, along with various laser treatments such as CO2 laser resurfacing and Excel V laser procedures. These options allow patients to achieve subtle enhancements with little to no downtime, which contributes to their increasing popularity. (3)
FAQ
What does board certification mean for a surgeon?
Board certification means that a physician has completed accredited specialty training and passed rigorous exams to demonstrate expertise in a particular field. Plastic surgeons certified by the ABPS meet the highest standards of education, ethics, and surgical skill.
Why should I choose a board-certified plastic surgeon?
Board-certified plastic surgeons have the expertise to deliver safe, natural, and lasting results. They are also trained to manage complications and prioritize patient safety.
Is a cosmetic surgeon the same as a plastic surgeon?
No. A plastic surgeon has completed formal surgical training and certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery. A “cosmetic surgeon” may come from any other medical specialty and typically lacks comparable surgical training.
How do I verify that my surgeon is board-certified?
You can verify a surgeon’s certification by visiting the websites of the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Medical Specialties.
Do board-certified plastic surgeons cost more?
Not necessarily, but they do represent a higher standard of training and accountability. The investment ensures that you receive care from a qualified expert in a safe and accredited environment.
References
- Almutairi K, Gusenoff JA, Rubin JP. Body Contouring. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2016;137(3):586e602e. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/prs.0000000000002140
- Triana. Trends in Surgical and Nonsurgical Aesthetic Procedures: A 14-Year Analysis of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery-ISAPS. Aesthetic plastic surgery. 2024;48. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-024-04260-2
- Hemsworth B, Hemsworth C, Richmond SA. Non-Surgical Medical Aesthetics and Patient Quality of Life: An Umbrella Review. Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum. 2024;6. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asjof/ojae096
- Garcia-Espinoza JA, García-Manzano RA, Aguilar-Aragón VB. Usurpation of the role of the plastic surgeon as a public health problem in Mexico: Reflections on a case. Archives of Plastic Surgery. 2018;45(04):390-392. doi:https://doi.org/10.5999/aps.2018.00241
