Reconstructive surgery can help repair a part of your body that is affected by disease or injury. Repairing a defect after mastectomy or correction of cleft lip and palate are just a few of the reasons someone might seek reconstructive surgery. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 1 million reconstructive surgery procedures are performed each year.
What are the different types of reconstructive surgery procedures?
Listed below are a few of the more common conditions that may be improved with reconstructive surgery.
- Breast reconstruction: for women who have undergone a mastectomy
- Breast reduction can help alleviate some of the physical and emotional discomfort associated with large breasts.
- Surgeries for feet and hands affected by any number of maladies, including tumors (cancerous and non-cancerous); webbed toes or fingers; extra fingers or toes. People also can receive treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Wound care for individuals who have been severely burned or cut (skin grafts are an example).
- Microsurgery or flap procedures for parts of the body affected by injury or disease, such as cancer.
- Plastic surgeons can also correct facial deformities. Common facial surgeries can correct cleft palette, cleft lip, or breathing problems due to a deviated septum.
How will the surgeon evaluate my case?
Each person's unique situation will be evaluated on an individual basis. Your surgeon will take a detailed medical history and evaluate your case based on your desired results and medical necessity. That is, do you have a traumatic burn that affects underlying muscles and impacts your mobility? Have you had cancer and require surgery to multiple body parts? Your surgeon will evaluate the severity of your case and advise you on the available options. Together, the two of you can decide which surgical procedure best suits your needs and expectations.
Will insurance cover reconstructive surgery?
Unlike elective cosmetic procedures, insurance carriers do cover reconstructive surgery. To be safe, be sure to have your surgeon write a letter and take photos detailing your case.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 10/24/2008…#11029
