My Doctor Online The Permanente Medical Group

Are you having back pain with any of the following?

  • Severe pain, weakness or tingling in your leg(s).
  • Difficulty stopping urination or loss of control of bladder or bowels.
  • Unexplained fever, nausea or vomiting.
  • A history of cancer or unexplained weight loss.

We understand that you are experiencing one or more of the health issues that might be impacting your back pain.

We recommend that you discuss these health issues with your doctor before proceeding with this program.

Once you are cleared by your doctor to do this program, we hope it helps you find relief from your back pain.

Provider photo for Benjamin Hornik

Benjamin Hornik, MD

Plastic Surgery

Welcome to My Doctor Online, a web site that my colleagues and I developed to make it easier for you to take care of your healthcare needs. On this site you will find answers to many of your questions about my clinical practice. Also included are several online features that will allow you to e-mail me, check your laboratory results and refill prescriptions. I hope you find its content informative and useful.

My Offices

Oakland Medical Center
Appt/Advice: 510-752-7447

See all office information »

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common Questions about Plastic Surgery

What is Plastic Surgery?

Plastic surgery includes many types of reconstructive surgery, hand surgery, microsurgery, and the treatment of burns or scars. The word plastic, which means to mold or shape, describes the restoration of form and function accomplished by plastic surgeons. Plastic surgery includes both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.

Plastic Surgeons have at least six years surgical training

A Plastic Surgeon, after earning a medical degree, receives at least 6 years of surgical training and experience, with a minimum of 3 years in plastic surgery. Some plastic surgeons receive additional training in a subspecialty area such as hand surgery or craniofacial surgery.

What is the difference between reconstructive and cosmetic surgery?

Generally, cosmetic surgery is done to improve an individual’s appearance, while reconstructive surgery is done on abnormal structures of the body or to restore appearance in the case of tumors, disease, or traumatic injury.  Reconstructive surgery is a covered benefit, while cosmetic surgery is an elective procedure for which a fee is charged.