Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive Surgery Facts
The goals of reconstructive surgery differ from those of cosmetic surgery. Reconstructive surgery is performed on abnormal structures of your body caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors or disease. It is generally performed to improve functions but may also be done to approximate a normal appearance.
There are two basic categories of patients for reconstructive surgery: those who have congenital deformities, otherwise known as birth defects, and those with developmental deformities, acquired as a result of accident, infection, disease, or in some cases, aging.
Reconstruction Surgery Overview
Regardless of the techniques used, Dr. Tabas will take care whenever possible to ensure that the resulting suture line is positioned to follow the natural creases and curves of your face in order to minimize the appearance of your scar. Although every effort will be made to offer the best possible cosmetic result, you will be left with a scar. The scar can be minimized by the proper care for your wound. We will discuss wound care in detail with you and give you Wound Care Information Sheets that will explicitly outline how to take care of whatever type of wound you have.
Most patients do not complain of significant pain after their reconstructive surgery procedure and the majority takes over-the-counter Tylenol. If you request it however, Dr. Tabas will prescribe a mild narcotic pain medication after your surgery if you need it.
Skin cancers such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common forms of cancer in the United States. Unlike the rest of your body, your face is a focal point of attention that is not easily hidden from view. For this reason, most patients choose to have their surgical defects from skin cancer repaired and Dr. Tabas provides the knowledge and experience necessary for you to achieve a positive outcome.
There are many factors to consider when repairing a defect created by the removal of your skin cancer including the location, size, depth, and extent of your defect. In addition to her expertise in dermatologic procedures, Dr. Tabas has extensive experience in reconstructive surgery in repairing facial defects created by skin cancer. She is committed to providing the most advanced, comprehensive, and ethical care possible for her patients in a friendly and pleasant environment.