Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive surgery focuses on restoring form and function. Plastic surgery comes from the Greek word Plastikos which means “to mold”. Plastic surgery includes both cosmetic surgery, where the focus is to “enhance” beauty, and reconstructive surgery that restores form and or function to a structure that may appear abnormal.
Improving normal function and a more “normal” appearance is our main goal.
Candidates for reconstructive surgery include, but are not limited to, congenital defects, trauma, tumors, disease, and infection.
Wound Reconstruction specifically addresses the restoration of form and function where tissue may be missing. Most commonly this is from chronic diseases such as diabetes with secondary neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease that may result in diminished blood flow and or venous insufficiency that results in chronic edema. The result of these diseases is typically lower extremity wounds that are difficult to heal. Another large group of wound reconstructive patients is those patients with pressure injuries. This is commonly seen in patients who are bed-bound and/or have limited mobility and or paraplegia.
MOHS Reconstruction addresses defects followed by skin cancer excision, most commonly performed on the face.
Following the removal of a skin cancer some individuals are concerned about the scar.
Reconstructive surgery may be performed following the removal of a skin cancer. Often the reconstruction can be performed immediately following the tumor removal to minimize recovery and the defect.
Depending on the complexity of the wound or defect, Dr. Desvigne may perform surgery in a clinical setting or an outpatient hospital setting. Closures may range from skin grafts, flaps, or simple closures.
During your consultation, Dr. Desvigne will evaluate you and your condition. During this time, he will review your options and the best choice for moving forward with your care. We will work with you to find the appropriate hospital that is convenient for you and your insurance provider. Reconstructive surgery is usually covered by most health insurance policies, though coverage for more advanced procedures and levels of coverage may differ greatly.
Listed below are reconstructive procedures that we specialize in:
- Reconstruction Following Failed Surgery
- Wound Reconstruction
- Abdominal Reconstruction
- Reconstruction Following Mohs Skin Cancer Excision
- Lower Extremity Reconstruction
- Trunk Reconstruction