Translation guide
In Japanese, 'cosmetic surgery' is most commonly expressed as 美容整形 (biyō seikei), which refers to elective procedures to improve appearance. A more formal medical term is 形成外科 (keisei geka), but this often includes reconstructive surgery. For everyday conversation, 整形 (seikei) alone is widely understood. Be aware that 美容外科 (biyō geka) is also used, especially in clinic names.
The most common meaning: surgical procedures done for aesthetic reasons, not medical necessity.
Surgery to repair or reconstruct body parts, often after injury or illness. This is a broader medical term that includes cosmetic procedures but also medically necessary ones.
美容整形 (biyō seikei) is specifically for aesthetic improvement, while 形成外科 (keisei geka) is the broader medical field of plastic surgery, which includes reconstructive procedures. In everyday conversation, 整形 (seikei) almost always means cosmetic surgery.
美容整形は自費だが、形成外科は保険がきくこともある。
Cosmetic surgery is out-of-pocket, but plastic surgery may be covered by insurance.
整形 (seikei) alone can mean 'orthopedics' in medical contexts. However, in casual conversation, it almost always refers to cosmetic surgery. Context usually makes it clear.
The standard term for cosmetic surgery. Widely understood and used in both formal and informal contexts.
彼女は美容整形を受けた。
She had cosmetic surgery.
美容整形に興味がありますか？
Are you interested in cosmetic surgery?
Short for 美容整形. Very common in casual speech. Can also refer to orthopedics in medical contexts, but in everyday use it usually means cosmetic surgery.
Literally 'aesthetic surgery'. Often used in clinic names and formal contexts. Slightly more technical than 美容整形.
あの美容外科は評判がいい。
That cosmetic surgery clinic has a good reputation.
The formal medical term for plastic/reconstructive surgery. Covers both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Used in hospital departments.
形成外科で手術を受けた。
I had surgery in the plastic surgery department.
Specifically refers to reconstructive surgery, such as breast reconstruction after mastectomy. More technical and less common in everyday language.
再建外科は保険が適用される場合がある。
Reconstructive surgery may be covered by insurance.
I'm going to the orthopedics department.
I'm going to the orthopedics department.