At A Glance

Price:

From £1250

Expected Results:

Restoration of skin following surgery

Length of Surgery:

up to 60 mins

Anaesthesia:

Local anaesthetic

Recovery:

Usual activities by 1 week

What is this?

Plastic surgery reconstruction refers to the techniques used by plastic surgeons to restore the appearance and function of a body part following the surgical removal of skin cancer.

This specialized procedure is typically performed by a plastic surgeon with expertise in reconstructive techniques.

After the removal of skin cancer, especially when a significant amount of tissue is excised, there may be a noticeable defect or deformity in the area. Plastic surgery reconstruction aims to address these issues and enhance the cosmetic outcome. Various techniques are utilized to rebuild or repair the affected area, tailored to each individual case.

Plastic surgery reconstruction following skin cancer removal not only helps restore physical appearance but also improves function and quality of life for those impacted by skin cancer. It is crucial to communicate your goals and expectations with your surgeon to ensure a personalized and successful reconstruction outcome.

The Consultation

Ahid Abood Plastic Surgery - Your Consultation

During the consultation with a consultant plastic surgeon, the details of the surgery and the type of reconstruction to be used will be discussed. Expectations regarding aftercare requirements, recovery time, and potential appearance outcomes will also be provided. Following the consultation, the procedure can be scheduled to allow time for reflection and any additional questions.

The Procedure

Ahid Abood Plastic Surgery - Procedure

At The Day Clinic, custom-built operating theatres facilitate skin cancer surgery and reconstruction in a stress-free environment. Most skin cancer surgeries are performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to return home shortly after the procedure. Two common plastic surgery reconstruction techniques used post-skin cancer removal include:

1. Skin Grafting: Involves transferring skin from a donor site to cover the surgical area, promoting healing and coverage of the defect.

2. Local Flap Reconstruction: Utilizes nearby healthy tissue to cover the defect, with various types of local flaps based on adjacent blood supply.

The choice of reconstruction technique is based on factors such as defect size, location, overall health, and surgeon expertise. Our specialized plastic surgeons can determine the most suitable approach for each case.

Aftercare & Results

Ahid Abood Plastic Surgery - Aftercare

Following the procedure, personalized aftercare guidance will be provided by the consultant to ensure optimal results. Instructions on wound care, dressing changes, and pain management will be given. Stitches may be utilized, with removal typically scheduled about one week post-treatment. It is essential to follow instructions for wound care and manage any discomfort with painkillers as advised.

A follow-up appointment may be recommended to monitor healing progress or discuss treatment outcomes. Steps to minimize scar visibility, such as scar massage and sunscreen application, will be advised. Using high SPF sunscreen on the area for about 12 months post-procedure is recommended.

What our patients think

Potential Risks

Although surgical excision and plastic surgery reconstruction are generally safe procedures, there are potential risks and complications to consider. These may include:

Infection

There is a risk of infection with any surgical procedure. Signs of infection may include increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the wound. Infections typically occur around 9 days after the procedure and can often be treated with a one-week course of oral antibiotics. If you have concerns about infection, we are available to assess and advise you accordingly.

Bleeding

Bleeding can occur during or after the removal procedure. In rare cases, excessive bleeding may require medical attention.

Scarring

Scarring is inevitable after any surgery. The extent of scarring varies depending on your individual case and healing process. We make efforts to minimize the appearance of any scarring that may occur.

Nerve Damage

In rare cases, surgical removal procedures for large or deep lesions may result in damage to nearby nerves. This could lead to temporary or permanent numbness or altered sensation in the area.

Recurrence

For certain types of skin lesions, there is a small risk of recurrence. If your surgery involved removing a skin cancer, we recommend annual skin checks with a skin expert to monitor for any signs of recurrence or other skin cancers.

Related FAQs

When can plastic surgery reconstruction be performed following skin cancer removal?

Plastic surgery reconstruction is typically carried out immediately following the removal of the skin cancer as part of the same procedure.

What is the recovery period after plastic surgery reconstruction?

The duration of the recovery process varies based on the complexity of the procedure, your individual healing capacity, and other factors discussed during your consultation with the consultant. It may take several weeks for the surgical site to completely heal. There may be limitations on physical activities during the initial healing stage. Adhering to the postoperative care instructions is crucial for achieving an optimal recovery.

Does plastic surgery reconstruction cause pain?

The reconstruction procedure is conducted under anaesthetic, ensuring a painless experience. After the procedure, once the effects of the local anaesthetic have diminished, you may experience mild discomfort. This discomfort can typically be managed effectively with over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol. Your consultant will provide instructions on how to handle postoperative care.

Does my health insurance include coverage for plastic surgery reconstruction?

In the majority of cases, health insurance plans will cover the expenses related to plastic surgery reconstruction after skin cancer removal. However, coverage is contingent upon the specifics of your insurance policy and should be verified prior to the procedure. If you encounter challenges in understanding your insurance policy, the administrative team at The Day Clinic can provide assistance.

What will my appearance be like after plastic surgery reconstruction?

The objective of plastic surgery reconstruction is to restore the body’s appearance as closely as possible to its pre-surgical excision state. Our reconstructive methods are designed to deliver outstanding cosmetic results and are strategically planned to minimize the visibility of scars. We recognize the importance of addressing significant skin conditions and achieving successful cosmetic reconstruction simultaneously.

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