In the world of surgery, people often use cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive words interchangeably without knowing the real difference. It is crucial that you know the difference so you can use the terms appropriately. Plastic surgery is an umbrella term for different types of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Cosmetic surgery procedures aim to reshape normal structures of the body. This is usually done to improve form and appearance. Cosmetic surgery is not covered by health insurance. Reconstructive surgery, on the other hand, is performed on the abnormal structure of the body caused by congenital defects, trauma, and disease. This is usually covered by most health insurance policies.
There are different types of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. If in this case, you are curious about reconstructive surgery, you should know the following types:
Breast reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is a procedure considered after a mastectomy. It can help restore breasts to their near-normal shape, appearance, size and including symmetry. In breast reconstruction, it can be done in two ways – implant-based and flap reconstruction.
Mammaplasty
Mammaplasty is commonly known as breast reduction. It is a procedure that seeks to remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reach a size that is proportionate with the body. This procedure is done to relieve any discomfort from large breasts like back pain. Men can also consider this procedure.
Foot and hand reconstruction
Hand surgery can significantly improve the conditions that weaken the hand including carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren’s contracture, and rheumatoid arthritis. Foot surgeries are done for people who are affected by webbed or extra toes and tumors. The surgeries can help treat diseases that impair strength and cause pain.
Cleft lip and palate repair
Cleft lip and palate are actually some of the most common birth defects in the world. The cleft lip and palate repair seek to correct the abnormal development thereby restoring a more normal appearance.
Regenerative medicine
You must be aware that regenerative medicine seeks to replace or regenerate human cells, organs or tissues to restore normal function. It is an extensive category of medicine that can help people with everything from birth abnormalities to trauma and cancer.
Regenerative medicine includes burn care, wound care, fat grafting, scar treatment, hand and face transplantation, bone regeneration, custom-made tissue flaps, bioprosthetic interfaces and many more.
Scar revision
Scar revision is actually a group of treatments that seek to reduce the appearance of the scar and help it blend in with the surrounding skin. The treatments will vary. Remember though that scars can only be reduced – it cannot be totally removed.
Tissue expansion
Tissue expansion refers to a process that allows the body to grow extra skin. This can be done in almost any area of the body through a silicone balloon expander, which is inserted under the skin. It is usually inserted near the area that requires repair.
If you recently suffered from trauma and you want to improve body function and your appearance, reconstructive plastic surgery is something that you should think about. Reconstructive surgery is a life-changing effect. It is complex, which is why you need Dr Zacharia to help in your journey.
