Reconstructive plastic surgery is done to correct facial and body abnormalities caused by birth defects, injury, disease, or aging. Usually, the goal of reconstructive plastic surgery is to improve body function. However, reconstructive plastic surgery may also be done to create a more normal appearance and improve self-esteem (this may also be called cosmetic surgery).
Reconstructive surgery covers a wide variety of procedures that are performed to help repair damaged tissue. Causes of tissue damage can range from birth defects or traumatic injuries to severe burns or disease.
Abnormal structures of the body may result from:
Generally, 2 types of people have reconstructive plastic surgery, including:
Any type of surgery carries some risk. People differ in their anatomy and their ability to heal. Depending on the type of surgery you have and your overall health, some complications and risks associated with reconstructive plastic surgery may include:
You may require multiple procedures done in several stages.
There are a number of areas in plastic surgery that may be either or both reconstructive or cosmetic, depending on your situation. For example, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) may be a procedure done for cosmetic improvement, as well as to correct eyelids that are drooping severely and obscuring vision.
