Not every cosmetic concern calls for the same type of provider. A med spa is typically the right stop for skin maintenance, injectables, and non-surgical treatments, while a board-certified plastic surgeon is necessary for structural, surgical change. At Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery & Medspa in Sarasota, patients have access to both under one roof, an AAAASF-accredited surgical facility led by Dr. J. David Holcomb, Dr. Joshua Kreithen, and Dr. Marc Salzman, alongside one of the most comprehensive med spas in Florida, staffed by licensed medical estheticians.
This guide explains the difference between the two, when each is appropriate, and how combining surgical and non-surgical care can create a more complete treatment plan.
What's the Difference Between a Plastic Surgeon and a Med Spa?
A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed years of surgical residency and fellowship training and is licensed to perform invasive procedures under anesthesia. A med spa, by contrast, is typically staffed by licensed estheticians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants who perform non-surgical treatments such as injectables, facials, and laser procedures, often under a supervising physician.
Both play an important role in cosmetic care, but they address different types of concerns and require different levels of training and oversight.
When Should You See a Med Spa for a Cosmetic Concern?
A med spa is the right choice for maintenance-focused, non-surgical concerns such as fine lines, sun damage, uneven skin tone, or mild volume loss. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, neuromodulator injections and dermal fillers are the most-performed cosmetic procedures nationally, with growth rates exceeding 70% annually in some categories.
Common med spa treatments include:
- Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport)
- Dermal fillers
- Laser skin resurfacing and photofacials
- Chemical peels and medical-grade facials
- Body sculpting treatments like CoolSculpting or Emsculpt NEO
These treatments involve little to no downtime and suit patients who want gradual, low-commitment improvement.
When Should You See a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Instead?
Structural or permanent changes to the body or face require a board-certified plastic surgeon. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, breast lift, and blepharoplasty were the top 5 surgical procedures nationally in 2025.
These procedures address concerns that injectables and skin treatments cannot correct, such as excess skin, significant volume loss, or asymmetry, and require the surgical training and anesthesia oversight only a licensed surgeon can provide. Learn more about the practice's plastic surgery services and the surgical options available in Sarasota.
Can a Med Spa and Plastic Surgery Practice Work Together?
Yes, and many patients benefit from a combined approach. A surgical procedure like a facelift or tummy tuck can address structural change, while med spa treatments such as laser resurfacing or injectables maintain results and refine skin quality afterward. At Holcomb - Kreithen, patients move between surgical and non-surgical care within the same practice, working with the same team throughout.
What Credentials Should You Look For in Each Setting?
For any surgical procedure, confirm board certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery or a related specialty board. For med spa treatments, look for a supervising physician and licensed, appropriately trained staff. The Aesthetic Society outlines specific qualifications to look for when choosing a provider for cosmetic care.
At Holcomb - Kreithen, Dr. Holcomb is double board certified, Dr. Kreithen is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Salzman brings over 30 years of board-certified experience, giving the practice's med spa team direct physician oversight.
How Do You Know If Your Concern Needs Surgery or a Nonsurgical Treatment?
A few questions can help clarify which path fits your concern:
- Is the issue caused by excess or sagging skin rather than surface texture? Surgery is usually needed.
- Are you looking for gradual improvement with no downtime? A med spa treatment is likely a better fit.
- Have previous non-surgical treatments plateaued? It may be time to discuss surgical options.
- Do you want a single, long-lasting correction rather than ongoing maintenance? Surgery typically offers more durable results.
A consultation with a plastic surgeon can help determine which category your concern falls into, even if the ultimate recommendation is non-surgical.
Why Choose Holcomb - Kreithen for Both Surgical and Med Spa Care in Sarasota?
Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery & Medspa is a Castle Connolly Practice Center of Excellence, offering both an AAAASF-accredited surgical facility and one of the most comprehensive med spas in Florida. Patients seeking either a plastic surgeon or a med spa in Sarasota benefit from a single practice where Dr. Holcomb, Dr. Kreithen, and Dr. Salzman oversee both surgical and non-surgical care.
FAQs
Can I get a consultation for both surgical and non-surgical options at the same visit? Yes. Holcomb - Kreithen offers consultations for both surgical and med spa treatments and can help determine which approach fits your goals.
Does insurance cover med spa or plastic surgery treatments? Most cosmetic treatments are not covered by insurance, though certain reconstructive or medically necessary procedures may be. Coverage should be confirmed during consultation.
How do I start if I'm not sure which option I need? Scheduling a consultation is the best first step. The team at Holcomb - Kreithen can evaluate your concern and recommend the appropriate provider and treatment.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Outcomes, risks, and suitability vary from patient to patient.
Not Sure Which Path Is Right for You? Our Team Can Help You Decide
Whether your goals call for a med spa treatment or surgical care, Dr. Holcomb, Dr. Kreithen, and Dr. Salzman can help you choose the right path. Schedule a consultation at Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery & Medspa in Sarasota to get started.
Sources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Plastic Surgery Statistics — https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/plastic-surgery-statistics
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report — https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf
- The Aesthetic Society: Qualifications to Look For — https://www.theaestheticsociety.org/patient-resources/how-to-choose-a-plastic-surgeon/qualifications