Plastic Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive plastic surgery is conducted to improve function and ability. It can also help patients achieve a more typical appearance for a body structure that has been affected by trauma, infection, tumors, or congenital defects.

Common types of plastic reconstructive surgery include breast reconstruction after mastectomy, skin reconstruction after removal of skin cancer, and various reconstructive facial, head, and neck procedures. It is also conducted to correct deformities or birth defects and traumatic injuries from dog bites, traffic accidents, and violence.

Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Services at EBCVT

We offer a comprehensive range of reconstructive procedures tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs:

• Post-Trauma Reconstructive Surgery: Restoring form and function after accidents or injuries.
• Skin Cancer Reconstruction in Danville: Repairing skin defects following cancer removal procedures such as Mohs surgery.
• Breast Reconstruction Surgery in Danville: Helping breast cancer survivors regain confidence through advanced reconstruction techniques.
• Scar Revision & Tissue Repair: Improving the appearance of scars from previous surgeries or injuries.
• Congenital Defect Correction: Addressing birth-related abnormalities such as cleft lip and palate repair.

Benefits of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery

Reconstructive surgery offers both physical and emotional benefits:

• Restores normal function for improved mobility and comfort
• Enhances self-confidence by improving aesthetic concerns
• Helps reduce pain or discomfort caused by structural issues
• Supports healing after medical treatments like cancer removal

Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Ideal Candidates

Good candidates for plastic reconstructive surgery are people in good health with no spotty medical history.

There are usually two types of candidates: people with deformities due to disease, infection, or aging, and people with birth defects.

For a clearer picture as to who are the most suitable candidates for plastic reconstructive surgery, learn more about the specific conditions below:

1. Birth defects
   • Congenital defects – Plastic reconstructive surgery can correct congenital defects, such as facial asymmetry or limb abnormalities, ensuring improved aesthetic balance and functional symmetry.
   • Cleft lip and palate – Surgical interventions can successfully repair cleft lip and palate, improving facial harmony and enabling proper speech development.
   • Craniofacial anomalies – Our doctors utilize advanced techniques to address craniofacial anomalies, restoring normal facial structure and function.
2. Trauma
   • Burns – Plastic surgery effectively treats burn scars, restoring skin texture and minimizing the visual impact of burn injuries. Patients also notice better mobility and other functional improvements.
   • Scars and injuries – Plastic reconstructive surgery can reduce the visibility of scars and restore damaged tissue, enhancing both appearance and functionality.
3. Cancer
   • Skin cancer – Surgical procedures can remove cancerous lesions while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue, promoting skin health and minimizing scarring.
   • Breast reconstruction – After a mastectomy, plastic reconstructive surgery offers breast reconstruction options, supporting emotional well-being and restoring confidence.
   • Tumor removal – Precision surgeries target tumors, improving aesthetics and functionality by eliminating cancerous growth.
4. Aging
   • Sagging skin – Facelift procedures tighten and lift sagging skin, returning a youthful glow to the face.
   • Wrinkles – Various techniques, including dermal fillers and Botox, address wrinkles and fine lines, promoting smoother skin.
   • Facial features – Plastic surgery can enhance or restore facial features affected by aging, revitalizing overall facial aesthetics.
5. Other Conditions
   • Genetic disorders – Plastic reconstructive surgery addresses physical manifestations of genetic diseases, improving appearance and quality of life.
   • Developmental disorders – Tailored interventions assist individuals who may need plastic reconstructive surgery brought about by symptoms of developmental disorders.
   • Medical conditions – Surgical solutions are available for various conditions, offering personalized care and transformative results.

However, plastic reconstructive surgery is not ideal for people with diabetes, a bleeding disorder, high blood pressure, depression, or heart disease, among other major health issues. Those who smoke, are excessively overweight, and drink lots of alcohol are also not ideal candidates for the surgery.

The Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Consultation

During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will review your medical record, assess your health condition, and discuss your expectations of the surgery’s outcome. They will also talk about the techniques he will employ to achieve your goals, the pre- and post-surgery preparations, risks, and the costs of the procedure.

Your surgeon will help you decide on the best option for you. They will guide you in determining if the surgery is right for you if you’ve been badly burned, are battling mobility issues, or require multiple surgeries on different body parts.

Tissue Grafting

Tissue grafting is a very common technique utilized in plastic reconstructive surgery. Grafting is the process of harvesting tissue from the patient’s body (called autologous tissue), and then transferring it to another area to perform reconstruction. This allows for a more natural external appearance following plastic reconstructive surgery.

This process can require the use of either general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation. The ideal option depends on the exact procedure being performed. Anesthesia prevents the patient from feeling any pain or discomfort during surgery.

Recovery Following Plastic Reconstructive Surgery

The healing and recovery process after reconstructive procedures varies depending on the extent of reconstruction required. It is important to follow post-surgical care directions. This will minimize the chance of complications, preserve the quality of the results, and lead to an overall shorter recovery period.

Generally, healing requires downtime and time off from work. Rest is needed, and patients must avoid physically taxing activities like heavy exercise. A degree of temporary swelling and bruising may be present for a time in the donor regions and the reconstructed regions. Cold compresses can address these.

Follow-up appointments will be necessary to check on the progress of incision healing and ensure there are no complications. Medical stitches are removed during these appointments.

How Much Does Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Cost?

The price of plastic reconstructive surgery depends on the specific details of your procedure. Once your surgeon has determined the best surgical approach for your needs, the associated costs will be reviewed with you.

Why Choose East Bay Cardiovascular and Thoracic Associates

At East Bay Cardiovascular and Thoracic Associates, we are dedicated to providing exceptional reconstructive plastic surgery with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Paul Wotowic and the rest of our team of board-certified surgeons have extensive experience in advanced surgical techniques, providing precise and natural-looking results. We utilize advanced technology to enhance safety and effectiveness while prioritizing patient comfort throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I know if I qualify for reconstructive surgery?

  If you have suffered an injury, undergone cancer treatment requiring tissue reconstruction, or have a congenital defect affecting functionality or appearance, you may be a candidate for reconstructive plastic surgery.

• Will insurance cover my reconstructive surgery?

  Many insurance providers cover medically necessary procedures such as post-trauma repairs or breast reconstruction after mastectomy; however coverage varies by provider—our team can assist with verifying benefits.

• How long does recovery take?

  Recovery depends on the type of procedure performed but can range from several weeks to months; our team will provide detailed post-operative guidelines specific to your case.

• Are there non-surgical alternatives?

  In some cases—such as minor scar revisions—non-surgical treatments like laser therapy may be an option; during consultation, we’ll explore all available solutions suited for you.

• Can reconstructive surgery improve scars?

  Yes! Scar revision techniques can significantly enhance scar appearance through excision or laser treatments designed specifically to minimize visibility over time.

Schedule Your Consultation

For expert-led plastic reconstructive surgery services that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality, trust EBCVT’s skilled specialists serving Danville. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!