Why is cosmetic surgery referred to as "plastic" surgery?

Answer 1

Plastic surgery is a specialty that uses surgical techniques to improve the appearance and function of patients' bodies.[1] Some of these operations are called "cosmetic", and others are called "reconstructive". Nearly all of the operations that plastic surgeons themselves consider the highest achievements within their profession are in that second category: reconstructive.

Answer 2

'Plastic' surgery yields two categories- cosmetic or reconstructive.

As far as the origin of the term plastic surgery, the word “plastic” comes from the Greek word “plastikos,” meaning “to mold or to shape.” This is the origin for the name of the man-made material that is found almost everywhere today—plastic. Whether it’s a toy, a cup, a plate, or a computer monitor, plastic is the material of choice since it can be molded or shaped into any desired form.

The term “plastic surgery” then refers to surgery that molds or shapes the human body.

Answer 3

Cosmetic surgery is more professional..that is what Doctors always use instead of plastic surgery.

Answer 4

Hmmm... good question. Could it be because that's the first material they used? I don't know. Just a guess.

Edit:
Oh, I just found this:
"The word 'plastic' derives from the Greek word 'plastikos' meaning to mold or to shape; the use of the word, in this term, is not connected with the synthetic polymer material known as plastic."

You got me wondering. I just had to look it up :o)

Answer 5

Because you are being molded like plastic. Its fake and most times looks apparent that you had work done, so your not fooling anyone.

Answer 6

because you look like plastic afterwards, as they name implies.

Answer 7

One word "silicone"