The term plastic surgery is derived from the Greek word "plastikos" which means "to mold". The earliest documented plastic surgical procedures date back to 100 B.C. and were primarily attempts to restore normal form to body parts which had been altered due to wartime injuries. Plastic surgical procedures can be divided into two major categories: reconstructive surgery and cosmetic, or aesthetic, surgery.

Reconstructive surgery involves the restoration of function or form to body parts that have been damaged as a result of injury, disease or congenital defects. Reconstructive plastic surgery requires technical as well as artistic skills.

Cosmetic plastic surgery is performed to enhance the body's appearance. Aesthetic surgery procedures are chosen by men and women who wish to change or refine their looks or to reduce the effects of aging. Such procedures tend to enable patients to gain self confidence and the sense of well-being which arises from looking, feeling and functioning at their best.

To familiarize yourself in greater detail with any of the procedures performed at the Forest Hills Plastic Surgery Center, please select from the following menu: