Plastic Surgery and Reconstruction

Plastic surgery is a surgical specialty that focuses on correcting aesthetic or functional issues in the body. While commonly associated with cosmetic surgery, also known as aesthetic surgery, plastic surgery encompasses a broad spectrum of procedures. Plastic surgeons perform surgical interventions to correct congenital abnormalities, deformities resulting from injuries, burn scars, and other medical conditions. Additionally, reconstructive surgery includes procedures such as breast reconstruction, burn treatment, post-traumatic repair, and tissue replacement after accidents. Plastic surgeons aim not only to enhance the physical appearance of patients but also to improve their quality of life and facilitate a return to daily activities, employing various surgical techniques. Reconstructive surgery primarily aims to correct deformities resulting from congenital abnormalities, cancer surgery, or tissue loss due to accidents. Plastic surgeons use various surgical methods, including tissue transfer, flap surgery, grafting, and restructuring techniques, to address such conditions. Specialized plastic surgeons, such as those focusing on breast reconstruction, can contribute to the physical and emotional recovery of women undergoing mastectomy after breast cancer. Plastic surgery is also regarded as a valuable tool for solving significant medical issues unrelated to aesthetic concerns. For example, conditions like congenital facial clefts or cleft lip and palate can be successfully corrected by plastic surgeons, allowing patients to regain normal functions. Therefore, plastic surgery is a comprehensive surgical discipline that provides both aesthetic and functional improvements.