When talking about plastic surgery, one question that may arise is, "What is the difference between plastic and reconstructive surgery?" Plastic, or cosmetic surgery is an operation that is done as a means to improve the way one looks such as a face lift or a breastfeeding augmentation, however, reconstructive surgery is that out of a necessity in which the betterment of life and health may be obtained. A child who is born with a cleft lip, would have considered a reconstructive surgery, however if you want to have lips like Angelina Joie this would be considered cosmetic surgery.
If the surgery has to do with the improvement of the health of a patient and can be considered a medical necessity, it is reconstructive. Improving the physical appearance of the patient in a reconstruction surgery is second while improving their life is first. With a cosmetic surgery, the exact opposite is true.
The line that separates cosmetic and reconstructive surgery can be fine, as some things that can be considered as reconstructive, it may also be considered cosmetic. It all comes down to insurance companies. Basically, if one can prove to the insurance company, the medical insurance may pay for the surgery, however as a general rule medical insurance policies do not cover plastic surgery without it is a necessity to ensure good health.
With these general rules in place, one can only assume one or the other if it was not for the insurance company's definition of what would institute as a reconstructive surgery. If you have for example received a scar from an automobile accident and you need a little face lift, then you may be able to convince the insurance company that it is your best interest to repair the entire face rather than risk repairing a small scar and having discolorations. Likewise, if you have just overcome breast cancer and have had part if not all of a breast removed, you would qualify for a breastfeeding enhancement.
The line is very thin on this matter and on many occasions, its blurriness will allow something to slide past but you would have to do your research on the topic and ask questions so that you are well informed on the situation. Just remember that insurance will only cover what can be considered reconstructive surgery and not cosmetic improvements.