When we think of plastic surgery, we often think of procedures that are done solely for cosmetic purposes. However, plastic surgery can also be done for medical reasons, such as to treat deformities or injuries.
Plastic surgeons like Dr. Peter Driscoll are trained in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Reconstructive surgery is the type of plastic surgery that is done to correct physical deformities or injuries. This can include procedures to correct cleft palates, repair burn injuries, or reconstruct breasts after a mastectomy.
One common reconstructive surgery is breast reconstruction. This procedure is done to rebuild a woman’s breast after it has been removed due to cancer or another medical condition. Breast reconstruction can be done using a woman’s own tissue, implants, or a combination of both.
Another common reconstructive surgery is facial reconstruction. This type of surgery is done to correct facial deformities caused by injury, disease, or birth defects. Facial reconstruction can involve bone grafts, skin grafts, or the use of implants to rebuild the face.
Plastic surgery can also be used to treat non-medical conditions, such as excessive sweating. A procedure called a sympathectomy can be done to remove the sweat glands in the armpits, which can significantly reduce sweating.
If you are considering plastic surgery for medical reasons, it is important to find a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Peter Driscoll who has experience in the specific type of surgery you need. You should also be prepared for a longer recovery time than you would have with cosmetic surgery.
Your primary care physician may be able to refer you to a qualified surgeon for your medical condition.
In addition, some plastic surgery procedures offer long-term benefits that can improve your quality of life. For example, liposuction can help reduce fat deposits that increase the risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Breast reduction or mastopexy may reduce neck, shoulder and back pain caused by overly large breasts. Even facial surgeries can help people suffering from severe facial deformities or birth defects, such as cleft lip or palate.
Overall, plastic surgery can be a life-changing procedure for those who need it for medical reasons. It can help to correct physical deformities, restore function, and improve quality of life.