Reconstructive plastic surgery can rebuild parts of the body that have been damaged by disease, injury, or genetics. This might be your best option if you want to regain confidence through plastic surgery.
How Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Helps
Reconstructive plastic surgery can help you restore normal shape and function in your body after injury, congenital defects or disease. Women, after breast cancer, for instance, may go for breast reconstruction surgery, which can help them feel more comfortable in their own skin.
The goals of reconstructive plastic surgery are:
- To restore normal anatomy
- To allow normal function
- To achieve an increased quality of life
When Can You Get Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive plastic surgery can be done after cancer, injury, or genetic defect. Here are some cases where a person can get reconstructive plastic surgery:
1. Breast Reconstruction after Cancer
If you’re a breast cancer survivor and want to rebuild your breast tissue, you’re a candidate for breast reconstruction surgery. You’ll meet with an oncology surgeon, who will create an individualized plan for your breast reconstruction.
A plastic surgeon who has experience with breast cancer reconstruction, will perform the reconstructive surgery which can be done at the same time as your mastectomy, after your mastectomy or lumpectomy, after radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or other therapies, or even years later if you change your mind after going “flat” for a while.
2. Facial Reconstruction
If you’re a cancer survivor and are dealing with a facial defect due to a cancer diagnosis including skin cancer, accident, or congenital defect, you may choose to have facial reconstruction surgery. Your plastic surgeon may recommend various surgical options to help restore your face with the minimum amount of visible scarring.
3. Gynaecomastia Correction
Gynecomastia is the abnormal enlargement of breasts in men. It can cause embarrassment and even pain. If a man has undergone cancer treatment, has been exposed to toxic substances, or has benign hormonal issues, it may cause his breasts to grow more significantly than they should be and even cause physical pain. Gynaecomastia may be treated through natural methods but the most effective way is through plastic surgery, which removes excess breast tissue.
4. Burns and Wounds
If you have a burn or a wound, you may want to seek reconstructive surgery if it interferes with your daily activities. For example, if you have a burn on your leg, you’ll most likely need reconstructive plastic surgery to build up the damaged skin. A wound may require reconstructive surgery if it’s chronic or affects your daily activities.
5. Breast Reduction
A breast reduction surgery removes extra fat, tissue and/or skin from the breasts. It may be performed for cosmetic reasons, but it may also be used to treat medical conditions.
If you have large breasts, you may choose to get breast reduction surgery to ease the pain or to achieve a breast proportionate to your body size.
A plastic surgeon will perform this procedure to relieve you from pain in your shoulders, neck, and upper back. It may also result in your ability to participate in sports and promote a healthier self-image.
6. Congenital Disabilities
If you have a congenital disability that affects normal function or appearance, you might qualify for reconstructive surgery. Some congenital disabilities are only cosmetic, but others can affect your body’s overall function.
If you have a congenital disability that impairs your function, you should meet with a plastic surgeon who can examine it and help you determine the best way to correct it.
Conclusion
Reconstructive plastic surgery can improve many issues caused by genetic defects, accidents, or cancer treatment. But it can’t restore function to a limb or organ. Reconstructive plastic surgery is best suited to certain conditions, but if you think you’re a candidate, don’t hesitate to talk to a plastic surgeon to see how a procedure can help you.
If you have more clarifications about a plastic surgery procedure, give us a call at (310) 326-3636. At Peninsula Plastic Surgery, we can help you get the transformation you want! Dr. Rosso is a multi-awarded plastic surgeon at Torrance, California, who offers reconstructive plastic surgery, tummy tuck, breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, and more. We are the destination for people who want to transform their appearances!