Typically facial plastic surgeons, cosmetic surgeons and anything other than "plastic surgeon" represent physicians who have trained in fields other than plastic surgery as part of their primary training. In some cases titles like "cosmetic surgeon" are used to disguise training that is not typically associated with aesthetic surgeries (gynecology, anesthesia etc.)
But in some cases (more typically for "facial plastic surgeons") some of these physicians have gone through additional training (usually fellowships) and specialize in specific (usually facial) aesthetic surgery. (Most "facial plastic surgeons" are ENT doctors who may have additional training in aesthetic procedures of the head and neck.)
In addition to training for reconstructive and cosmetic procedures of the head and neck typically plastic surgeons have additional training for reconstructive and cosmetic procedures of the entire body.
The important thing to look for is Board Certification (for plastic surgeons from the American Board of Plastic Surgery) and experience with your procedure. Some facial plastic surgeons can produce wonderful results and are well trained in face lifts and other facial plastic procedures.
Patient beware though. A patient should always ask:
Is the doctor board certified by an recognized board? (ie American Board of Plastic Surgery)
What is the doctor's training? (medical school, internship, residency, fellowship)
How commonly do they perform this procedure?
Sometimes the answers are suprising.
Hope this helps.
