Reconstructive Surgery

Overview

Reconstructive surgery is designed to address abnormalities that are present at birth, arise from disease, or result from injury. For example, individuals may undergo breast reconstruction following a mastectomy or surgery on the hands to correct congenital conditions, such as webbed fingers. Unlike cosmetic surgery, which is primarily aesthetic, reconstructive procedures are performed for medical reasons.

This type of surgery aims to restore function and appearance to areas of the body impacted by congenital defects, disease, or trauma. Common examples include the repair of cleft lip and palate and breast reconstruction. The term “reconstructive” emphasizes the process of rebuilding following damage or loss.

Types

The following are some of the most common conditions treated with reconstructive surgery:

• Breast conditions:
  • Breast reconstruction, typically following a full or partial mastectomy.
  • Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty), which may be necessary to alleviate discomfort, rashes beneath the breasts, or back pain. Whether breast reconstruction is classified as cosmetic or reconstructive often depends on the extent of tissue removed.
• Limb salvage: When amputation is a possibility, reconstructive surgery can potentially save the limb by using tissue to fill in gaps and restore structure.
• Facial reconstruction: This may be required following tumor removal or trauma. A specific type of facial reconstruction, known as orthognathic surgery, is performed to straighten the jaw.
• Hand procedures: This is to address or improve the following (some surgeons specialize in hand surgery):

• Enhance strength.
• Increase flexibility.
• Restore function.
• Correct webbed fingers.
• Treat carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Manage arthritis.
• Repair trauma-related injuries.
• Other types of procedures include:
• Cleft lip and palate repair.
• Craniosynostosis surgery (reshaping the head).
• Gender confirmation surgeries (for transfeminine or transmasculine individuals).
• Lymphedema treatment.
• Migraine surgery (for chronic headache relief).
• Panniculectomy (body contouring).
• Septoplasty (correction of a deviated septum).

Only a small number of the possible procedures are included in this list. Reconstructive surgery includes a broad spectrum of therapies for cancers, infections, and other kinds of injuries.

Reasons for undergoing the procedure

The need for inpatient or outpatient care depends on the particular type of reconstructive surgery. For example, nipple and areola reconstruction is usually done on an outpatient basis, whereas more complex procedures might necessitate an overnight hospital stay or longer.

Reconstructive surgeries can be conducted in various locations, such as clinics, surgery centers, your healthcare provider’s office, or hospitals.

Risk

All surgeries carry risks. For reconstructive surgery, common risks include:

• Issues with anesthesia.
• Bleeding.
• Blood clots.
• Infection.
• Problems with healing.
• Fatigue (tiredness).

It’s important to discuss any concerns about these risks with your healthcare providers.

Procedure

Every case is evaluated individually. Your surgeon will review your detailed medical history and consider your desired outcomes alongside your medical needs. For example, if you have a traumatic burn affecting underlying muscles and impacting mobility, or if you’ve had cancer requiring surgery on multiple areas, your surgeon will assess the severity of your condition and discuss the available options. You and your surgeon will decide which procedure best suits your goals and needs.

Before the procedure

For instance, many women choose breast reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy, a procedure that often forms part of cancer treatment involving the removal of one or both breasts. The goal of this reconstructive surgery is to rebuild or create a new breast mound that closely resembles the natural breast, helping to achieve a balanced chest, improve the fit of clothing, eliminate the need for external prostheses, and restore self-confidence.

Prior to the procedure, your surgeon will discuss the potential risks associated with breast reconstruction. While the results can be rewarding, they may not always align with your expectations, and scarring will occur. Additionally, rebuilt breasts often have reduced or no sensation, although advancements are being made to enhance sensitivity following mastectomy. It’s important to prepare for a healing and adjustment period after the surgery.

During the procedure

For breast reconstruction, either your own tissues or breast implants can be used. This approached, when applied using your own tissues, is called a “flap.” Tissue for forming new breasts can be taken from your back, buttocks, thighs, or lower belly, among other parts of your body. This method usually requires a longer surgical procedure and an extended hospital stay, but it frequently yields a more natural-looking appearance and can lessen the need for additional procedures in the road.

Choosing implants might result in a faster recovery time and can frequently be done as an outpatient procedure. To preserve the implants, implant-based reconstruction may eventually need more procedures. Depending on the technique employed, the procedure’s length might vary; some procedures can take several hours, while others can just take an hour or two.

After the procedure

You will be observed as soon as possible following the surgery as the anesthesia wears off. You can feel sleepy and require medicine to control the pain.

It is essential to properly care for the surgery areas during the healing period. To help with your recovery, make sure you show up for all follow-up consultations with your healthcare provider.

Outcome

Reconstructive surgery is designed to restore your body following injury, diseases, or congenital defects. Beyond physical restoration, it aims to enhance your comfort and confidence.

Before undergoing any reconstructive procedure, ensure you have a clear understanding of its expected outcomes by discussing them with your surgeon. It’s important to align your expectations with what the surgery can realistically achieve.

If you’ve had breast reconstruction, contact your surgeon immediately if you experience:

• New skin changes.
• Swelling.
• Lumps.
• Pain.
• Fluid leakage.

Other types of reconstructive surgeries may present their own specific symptoms, so be vigilant and reach out to your healthcare providers if you have any concerns.

Additionally, consider the mental and emotional impacts of reconstructive surgery. The process can be stressful, and adjusting to changes in your body can be challenging. Seeking support from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial during your recovery.