Reconstructive Surgery

What is Reconstructive Surgery?

Reconstructive surgery is a specialised branch of plastic surgery focused on restoring normal function and appearance to parts of the body affected by congenital defects, trauma, injury, infection, tumours, or disease. Reconstructive surgery addresses these medical conditions with the aims to rebuild or repair damaged or missing tissue to restore both form and function.

Timing and Planning

Reconstructive procedures may be performed immediately following the primary treatment (immediate reconstruction) or delayed until after healing and recovery are complete (delayed reconstruction). The timing depends on various factors including the patient's overall health, extent of the condition, and treatment requirements.

Common Reasons for Reconstructive Surgery

Patients may require reconstructive surgery following:

  • Cancer treatment that requires removal of tissue

  • Traumatic injuries from accidents or burns

  • Infections that damage or destroy tissue

  • Previous surgical complications requiring revision

  • Disease processes that compromise tissue integrity

The types of Reconstructive Surgery performed by Dr Henry Shepherd include:

Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that rebuilds the breast following mastectomy or lumpectomy for breast cancer treatment. This reconstructive surgery aims to restore the breast's shape, size, and appearance, helping women regain their sense of wholeness and confidence after cancer treatment. Breast reconstruction is considered an essential part of comprehensive breast cancer care.

Skin Cancer Surgery

Skin cancer surgery involves the surgical removal of cancerous tissue from the skin, followed by reconstruction when necessary to restore both function and appearance. As a plastic surgeon, Dr Shepherd performs the excision and the reconstructive aspect of skin cancer treatment, working to repair and rebuild areas while achieving the best possible aesthetic outcome.

 

DR HENRY SHEPHERD

Sydney Plastic Surgeon

Reconstructive surgery often involves a multidisciplinary team approach, working closely with oncologists, dermatologists, radiologists, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive patient care. Treatment plans are carefully coordinated to optimise both medical outcomes and reconstructive results.