Reconstructive surgery is plastic surgery to help restore form or function to some part of the body due to injury, infection, disease or tumor. Reconstructive plastic surgery is also used to correct congenital abnormalities (birth defects) and developmental abnormalities. Unlike cosmetic surgery, in which a procedure is not considered "necessary" but is done to enhance the way a person looks, reconstructive surgery is considered a necessary operation that will improve a person's health or appearance for greater social acceptance.
Examples of reconstructive surgery include:
Reconstructive surgery recovery depends on the type of surgery involved. As with any surgical procedure, there is always the risk of infection, bleeding, prolonged wound healing, and potential complications from anesthesia. Certain patient groups may have a more difficult time recovering from surgery, such as patients who have a poor diet, have a weakened immune system, or smoke cigarettes. Before having reconstructive surgery, your doctor will discuss all the benefits and risks with you to help you make an informed decision and understand what to expect after surgery.
Many people think of plastic surgery as purely cosmetic, but there’s a lot more to this surgical specialty. Plastic surgeons often do reconstructive procedures that can rebuild body parts after an injury or illness.
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