The goal of cosmetic surgery is to improve, enhance or repair a person's appearance and, in some cases, the body's functionality. Many people seek out cosmetic surgery in foreign countries where the cost of healthcare is considerably lower. As a result, many international tourist destinations have impressive cosmetic surgery infrastructure.

While many such operations focus on the aesthetics of the patient, some are performed to reshape disfigurement as a result of a severe injury. Cosmetic surgeons can reshape a number of human tissues. Cartilage can be trimmed; muscles shaved; bone sculpted; and fat removed. Skin grafts and tucks are also part of cosmetic surgery.

Cosmetic surgery is the world's most sought-after form of plastic surgery (which includes a greater scope of applications than mere aesthetic interests). Abdominoplasty, the sculpting and firming of the stomach, is popular; as are breast augmentations and rhinoplasty (nose reshaping).

The patient's skin can be improved with a chemical peel that removes acne scars and some wrinkles. Lasers can be used to resurface and smooth the skin, while collagen and similar fillers can be injected to fill out or reshape certain areas of the body. Excess fat can be sucked out in liposuction procedures.

After modifying bone structures and reshaping or removing tissues, plastic surgeons close any incisions in a way that minimizes visible scarring. In some cases, skin may be grafted from another, less visible part of the body.

Following the operation, patients usually experience a great deal of swelling and bruising that lasts a few days. Ice packs and pain medication are important at first; and patients coming out of more invasive procedures may need to remain in hospital for a few days.