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Reconstructive Surgery Resources
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Reconstructive surgery is a type of plastic surgery performed to reshape abnormal structures of the body in order to improve its function and appearance. It differs from cosmetic surgery as this type of surgery is mainly performed on "normal" structures of the body to improve the patient's appearance and self-esteem.
Frequently Asked Questions about Reconstructive Surgery:
- What causes people to have reconstructive surgery?
- What are the different types of reconstructive surgery?
- How do I prepare for the surgical procedure?
- Will the procedure be insurance covered?
What causes people to have reconstructive surgery?
There are three primary reasons reconstructive surgery are performed:
- Traumatic Injury
- Birth Defect
- Other Medical Reason
Traumatic Injury
Traumatic injuries such as dog bites, accidents or burns can cause bony injuries, facial fractures, serious lacerations, hand injuries or traumas to the upper or lower body that may require reconstructive procedures.
Depending on the nature and extent of the personal injury, reconstructive surgery may be required following the initial repair to reduce the appearance of scars or improve the functionality of the body part.
Birth Defects or Deformities
Birth defects such as cleft-lip, palate or hand deformities, extra or absent fingers or birthmarks can be improved by reconstructive procedures. The chin or jaw may require surgical repair if the formation of the jaw and chin affects facial movement or eating.
Some of these defects are formed in the early stages of childhood, so the decision is made by the patient's parents or guardian.
Medical Reasons
Reconstructive surgery also is performed for tumor removal. The procedure focuses on treating an unappealing appearance or on preventing the internal spread of the disease. It could also be used for rebuilding an area affected by skin cancer or on breast cancer survivors to rebuild their breast(s). In addition, women with large breasts may seek breast reduction surgery to relieve back pain.
Types of Reconstructive Surgery Procedures
Laceration Repair
It is performed on individuals who have been severely burned or cut to repair wounds that failed to heal or heal improperly. Laceration repair can be subdivided into four general categories: direct closure, skin grafts, tissue expansion, and flap surgery.
Microsurgery or flap procedure
This procedure is performed to replace parts of the body affected by a disease or injury.
Surgery for feet and hands
This type of surgery is available for people with tumors, maladies, extra fingers or toes, webbed toes or fingers, etc.
Facial surgery
This procedure is performed to correct facial defects such as cleft lip, breathing problems, sinuses problems, etc.
Breast reconstruction or reduction
These procedures such as autogenous free flap reconstruction and breast implants are available for women who have undergone a mastectomy or with abnormally large breasts that cause back problems.
Case evaluation
The preparation for reconstructive surgery depends on the type of surgery that is to be performed. Some procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis and others will require hospitalization.
A certified plastic surgeon will be able to evaluate your case and provide surgical detailed information.
Insurance
Reconstructive surgery, unlike cosmetic, is typically covered by insurance as it is a medical procedure.
There are several guidelines insurance companies adhere to when it comes to what they considerer to be reconstructive surgery and what they consider to be cosmetic surgery. Most insurance companies follow the definitions provided by the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) which defines reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery as the following:
- Reconstructive is surgery performed on abnormal structures caused by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumors, or disease. This can include surgery to improve function or to give a normal appearance.
- Cosmetic surgery is the reshaping of normal structures on the body to improve the self-esteem or appearance of a patient.
Since reconstructive surgery is generally performed to improve function or to establish a more normal appearance, there is a fine line with elective cosmetic surgery which is why coverage disputes sometimes arise.
In addition, coverage will vary depending on your health insurance plan. Most insurance companies will have medical criteria that must be met in order for the surgery to be covered.
It is advisable to have your surgeon write a letter and send photos to your insurance company detailing the case and explaining the medical reason for the surgery.
