Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive Surgery in Fort Collins & Loveland, CO
At Divine Dermatology in Fort Collins and Loveland, CO, we understand that reconstructive surgery is about restoring your confidence and quality of life. Reconstructive surgery is a transformative medical specialty that goes beyond aesthetic enhancement to restore form and function to areas of the body affected by birth defects, disease, or injury. Reach out to us to learn more.
What Is Reconstructive Surgery?
Reconstructive surgery is a specialized field of medicine focused on repairing or rebuilding parts of the body that have been compromised by congenital defects, trauma, infection, or disease processes like cancer. Unlike cosmetic surgery, which is performed primarily for aesthetic enhancement, reconstructive procedures address medical necessities to restore normal function and appearance.
Different Types of Reconstructive Surgery Procedures
Reconstructive surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, each tailored to address specific medical needs. Below, we break down the most common types of reconstructive surgery procedures.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Breast reconstruction surgery is one of the most frequently performed reconstructive procedures, typically following mastectomies for breast cancer treatment. Reconstructive breast surgery can be performed immediately following mastectomy or as a delayed procedure. This procedure can be accomplished through:
- Implant-based reconstruction: Using silicone or saline implants to recreate breast shape.
- Autologous tissue reconstruction: Using the patient’s own tissue from areas like the abdomen, back, or thighs.
- Combination approaches: Integrating implants and natural tissue for optimal results.
Facial Reconstruction
Facial reconstructive procedures address defects caused by trauma, cancer removal, or congenital conditions. Some of the most common facial reconstructive procedures include:
- Cleft lip and palate repair
- Facial trauma reconstruction following accidents
- Post-surgical reconstruction after skin cancer removal
- Jaw realignment procedures
Hand and Upper Extremity Reconstruction
Hand surgery addresses functional and aesthetic concerns. The most common hand and upper extremity reconstruction procedures include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome repair
- Treatment of congenital hand differences like webbed fingers
- Trauma reconstruction following accidents
- Arthritis-related joint reconstruction
Mohs Surgery Reconstruction
Following Mohs surgery for skin cancer removal, reconstructive procedures help restore normal appearance and function to the affected area. These procedures may involve:
- Simple closure techniques
- Skin grafts
- Local tissue rearrangement
- More complex reconstruction for larger defects
Cosmetic Surgery vs. Reconstructive Surgery
While cosmetic and reconstructive surgery fall under the broader category of plastic surgery, they serve distinctly different purposes.
Reconstructive surgery is a medically necessary procedure that restores normal anatomy after trauma, disease, or congenital defects. It addresses functional impairments. Insurance often covers reconstructive surgery and helps the patient focus on returning to baseline function and appearance.
Cosmetic surgery is an elective procedure performed for aesthetic enhancement. It helps improve appearance beyond normal parameters and is performed on healthy tissue. Cosmetic surgeries are typically not covered by insurance.
Comprehensive Approach to Reconstructive Plastic Surgery
Reconstructive plastic surgery combines the technical expertise of plastic surgery with the medical necessity of reconstructive procedures. This specialized field requires extensive training in:
- Advanced surgical techniques
- Tissue transplantation and microvascular surgery
- Wound healing and scar management
- Patient psychology and emotional support
What Happens After Breast Reconstructive Surgery?
Recovery from breast reconstruction varies depending on the specific technique used and individual patient factors. The various stages after breast reconstructive surgery include:
- Immediate Post-Operative Period: Immediately after the operation, patients are monitored in the recovery area. Pain is managed with prescribed medications. Patients receive initial dressing changes and given wound care instructions. Drainage tubes may be placed at this time.
- Short-Term Recovery (1-2 weeks): In the short-term recovery, you’ll have follow-up appointments for monitoring healing. You can expect to return to activities after we remove the drainage tubes and sutures. Patients begin gentle arm exercises.
- Long-Term Recovery (2-6 months): Long-term recovery includes a gradual return to normal activities and exercise. You may have potential additional procedures for nipple reconstruction or symmetry. Patients monitor for any complications and adjust to their new body image.
When to Call the Doctor
After any reconstructive surgery procedure, it’s crucial to monitor your recovery. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- Signs of infection
- Excessive bleeding or unusual discharge
- Severe, worsening pain not controlled by prescribed medications
- Signs of blood clots
Signs of emergency specifically for mastectomy patients include:
- New lumps or changes in breast shape
- Skin color changes or unusual swelling
- Implant displacement or visible rippling
- Persistent fluid collection
- Delayed wound healing
- Unusual scarring patterns
- Persistent numbness beyond expected timelines
Care at Divine Dermatology
At Divine Dermatology, we understand that reconstructive surgery represents more than just a medical procedure. This type of surgery helps in a patient’s journey toward restored confidence and improved quality of life. With advances in surgical techniques and a deeper understanding of patient needs, reconstructive procedures continue to evolve, improving patients’ quality of life. If you’re considering reconstructive surgery or have questions about your options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team.