UMC Health

Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

What are Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery?

Plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery is a medical specialty concerned with the functional and aesthetic correction and restructuring of body structures. Plastic surgery encompasses procedures for congenital anomalies, post-traumatic deformities, reconstructions after tumor surgery, and aesthetic interventions.

Why is it done?

Plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgical procedures are performed for a variety of reasons:

  • Congenital Anomalies: Correction of congenital anomalies such as cleft palate and lip, and congenital hand and foot deformities.
  • Trauma: Repair of tissue loss resulting from burns, cuts, fractures, and other traumas.
  • Tumor Surgery: Reconstruction of spaces remaining after surgical removal of tumors from the skin and other body areas.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Cosmetic surgeries are procedures aimed at improving a person's appearance and boosting their self-confidence.
  • Breast Reconstruction: Rebuilding breast tissue after mastectomy.

Application Areas

Plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery encompasses a wide range of diseases and conditions:

  • Facial Surgery: Rhinoplasty (nose surgery), facelift, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and jaw surgery.
  • Body Shaping: Liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), arm and leg lift surgeries.
  • Breast Surgery: Breast augmentation, reduction, and lift surgeries, as well as reconstructive breast surgery.
  • Burn Treatment: Repair of scars and tissue loss resulting from burns.
  • Skin Surgery: Removal of skin cancers, skin rejuvenation, and scar treatment.
  • Microsurgery: Repair of small blood vessels and nerves, free tissue transfers.

Surgery Process

Consultation: Before surgery, you will have a detailed consultation with your doctor to learn about your health condition and treatment options.

Preparation: Necessary tests and examinations will be performed before the surgery. Your doctor will provide you with detailed information about the surgical procedure and preparations will be completed.

Anesthesia: Depending on the type of surgery, general or local anesthesia will be administered.

Surgical Procedure: Your surgeon will perform the planned surgery. The duration of the surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Recovery Process: After the surgery, you will be kept under observation in the hospital for a period of time. After discharge, it is important to follow the care and recovery process recommended by your doctor.

Results

Plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgical procedures can significantly improve both a patient’s physical appearance and quality of life. Maintaining your health after surgery is possible with regular doctor check-ups and recommended lifestyle changes.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery carries certain risks. These risks may include infection, bleeding, complications related to anesthesia, scarring, and problems that may occur during the postoperative recovery process. Choosing an experienced and expert surgeon is important to minimize these risks.