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Restoring lives: Types of plastic reconstructive surgery

Restoring Lives Types of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery

Plastic reconstructive surgery is a specialised field that restores the form and function of various body parts. While many associate plastic surgery with cosmetic enhancements, reconstructive procedures are needed for patients who have congenital deformities, traumatic injuries, or medical conditions that affect their appearance or physical capabilities.

Below, we explore the common types of plastic reconstructive surgeries, their purposes, and when patients may consider them.

Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a surgery to restore the shape and appearance of a breast, usually after a mastectomy or lumpectomy to get rid of breast cancer. A breast reconstruction will help women regain confidence and a sense of normalcy post-treatment.

The surgery can involve:

Implant-based reconstruction: Using saline or silicone implants to recreate the breast.
Flap reconstruction: Transferring tissue from another part of the body, such as the abdomen or back, to rebuild the breast.
Nipple reconstruction: Reconstructing the nipple and areola for a more natural look.

Breast reconstruction is executed in stages and can be initiated immediately after mastectomy or delayed until after treatments like chemotherapy are complete.

Cleft Lip and Palate Repair

Cleft lip and palate affect the upper lip and roof of the mouth, respectively. Patients born with these congenital deformities can have hindered feeding, speech, hearing and dental problems. In Singapore, plastic surgeons recommend surgical repair in infancy or early childhood for the best functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Procedures include:

Lip repair: Closing the separation in the upper lip to improve appearance and function.
Palate repair: Closing the gap in the roof of the mouth to enhance speech and swallowing.
Revisions: Additional surgeries to address issues like scarring or nasal asymmetry as the child grows.

Early intervention is critical for ensuring a child’s normal development and social integration.

Scar Revision Surgery

Scars resulting from injuries and surgeries may be unsightly and can also lead to functional limitations. For instance, deep scars or those located near joints may cause tightness in the surrounding skin, resulting in restricted movement. Patients seek scar revision surgery to restore their skin function and minimise the appearance of scars.

Types of scar revision include:

Excisional surgery: Removing the scar and re-closing the wound to reduce its size.
Z-plasty: A technique to reposition scars and improve their alignment with natural skin folds.
Laser therapy: Reducing redness and texture irregularities.

The choice of technique depends on the scar’s size, location, and type. While we cannot completely remove scars, these procedures can dramatically improve their appearance and functionality.

Facial Reconstruction

Facial reconstruction addresses deformities caused by trauma or diseases like cancer. Trauma from accidents, such as fractures to the jaw or cheekbones, may require surgical intervention to realign bones and repair damaged tissues. Whereas, facial deformities resulting from cancer can involve skin grafts, tissue flaps, or implants to rebuild areas affected by tumour removal.

Common procedures include:

Jaw reconstruction: Correcting injuries or deformities of the mandible or maxilla.
Skin grafts or flaps: Replacing missing or damaged skin.
Orbital reconstruction: Repairing the eye socket to ensure proper eye alignment and function.
Nasal reconstruction: Restoring the nose’s shape and function following injury or surgery.

These surgeries often require a multidisciplinary approach involving plastic surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, and otolaryngologists to achieve the best outcomes.

Burn Reconstruction

Severe burns can cause extensive scarring and contractures. Beyond affecting appearance, contracture scars can also tighten the skin, restrict movement, and affect mobility, particularly around joints. Burn reconstruction surgery will help them restore function and improve the skin’s appearance.

Procedures include:

Skin grafting: Transferring healthy skin from one area to the affected site.
Tissue expansion: Stretching nearby skin to cover large burn areas.
Release of contractures: Relieving tight scar bands to restore mobility.

Reconstruction is often a long-term process that may require multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation to achieve optimal results.

When to Consider Reconstructive Surgery?

In Singapore, plastic surgeons may advise reconstructive surgery when patients have one or more of the following factors:

Impaired function

Conditions that limit essential functions, such as breathing, speaking and eating mobility, often necessitate reconstructive surgery.

Severe pain

Chronic pain caused by physical deformities or scarring can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.

Impacted psychological well-being

Visible deformities or scars can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

Consult a Plastic Surgeon in Singapore

Plastic reconstructive surgery can transform lives, helping people look better and feel better physically and emotionally. These procedures offer a way forward when life presents tough challenges.

If you or someone you know could benefit from reconstructive surgery, consulting an experienced plastic surgeon in Singapore is essential. At Polaris Plastic Surgery, we provide compassionate care and expert solutions to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Our plastic surgeons specialise in various reconstructive procedures to address each patient’s unique situation.