A plastic surgeon is a medical specialist who performs surgery to reconstruct or repair parts of the body that may occur due to birth disorders, burns, injuries, and medical conditions. It can also be used to improve the appearance of a person.

There are cases of a general surgeon performing plastic surgery procedures such as liposuction or reduction mammoplasty. However, it is always better to opt for a plastic surgeon who is specially trained and qualified to do these surgeries.

In addition to cosmetic surgery, a plastic surgeon also focuses on repairing damaged tissues to reconstruct and restore normal appearance and function such as:
Congenital birth defects like cleft lip and palate
Reconstruction of the breast following cancer
Reattaching of severed fingers, toes, or limbs
Trauma and burns
Scar repair
Elimination of malignant tumours and benign lesions on the skin

A plastic surgeon is trained in laser treatment. However, it is advisable to go to a doctor who is a specialist and qualified in laser surgery.

There are some differences between a dermatologist and plastic surgeon. A dermatologist treats conditions of the hair, nails, and skin by medicines or using minimally-invasive procedures such as dermal fillers, even though they do perform surgeries. A plastic surgeon mostly does restorative and reconstructive surgeries to treat birth defects, injuries, or burns, along with cosmetic procedures.