Plastic surgeons care for patients with both reconstructive and cosmetic concerns. Some people need surgery after an injury, burn, or cancer treatment, while others choose surgery to improve their appearance or address changes that occur with ageing. After assessing your condition and goals, the plastic surgeon will discuss the available treatment options and recommend the most appropriate approach.
Skin Cancer Reconstruction
Skin cancer surgery may leave defects that affect both appearance and function. Plastic surgeons use reconstructive techniques to repair the affected area while preserving as much normal tissue as possible. As a result, many patients achieve both good healing and improved cosmetic outcomes.
Breast Reconstruction
Some women choose breast reconstruction after a mastectomy or other breast surgery. Reconstruction can restore breast shape and improve body confidence. Depending on your preferences and medical condition, reconstruction may be performed using implants or your own tissue.
Facial Injuries
Facial injuries can affect the skin, bones, muscles, and nerves. Early treatment helps restore both appearance and function. In addition, careful reconstruction aims to minimise long-term scarring whenever possible.
Hand Injuries
The hands contain many delicate structures that work together to provide movement and sensation. Plastic surgeons treat tendon injuries, nerve injuries, fractures, and complex wounds to help restore hand function and support recovery.
Burns and Burn Reconstruction
Burn injuries can damage the skin and deeper tissues. Although many burns heal with medical treatment, severe burns may require reconstructive surgery or skin grafting. Early treatment also helps reduce scarring and improve movement.
Congenital Conditions
Some children are born with conditions such as cleft lip or cleft palate. Plastic surgeons perform reconstructive procedures that improve appearance, speech, feeding, and overall function as the child grows.
Scar Revision
Scars may become raised, thickened, painful, or restrict movement. Depending on the type of scar, plastic surgeons may recommend surgery, laser treatment, or other techniques to improve its appearance and function.
Cosmetic Concerns
Many people choose cosmetic procedures to improve facial or body features. Common concerns include facial ageing, loose skin, excess fat, or changes following pregnancy or weight loss. After discussing your goals, the plastic surgeon will recommend treatments that are appropriate for your individual needs.
When Should You See a Plastic Surgeon?
You should consider seeing a plastic surgeon if you experience:
- A facial or hand injury
- Burns requiring reconstructive care
- Skin cancer requiring reconstruction
- A congenital condition such as cleft lip or palate
- Scars that affect appearance or movement
- A soft tissue lump requiring surgical removal
- Changes following breast cancer surgery
- Concerns about facial or body appearance
- Age-related changes you wish to address
- A referral for reconstructive or cosmetic surgery
Early assessment can help you understand your treatment options and achieve the best possible functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Ready to Find a Plastic Surgeon?
Explore PRIME's featured plastic surgeons below to learn about their qualifications, subspecialty expertise, clinic locations, and patient education resources. You can also browse related articles and videos to better understand reconstructive surgery, cosmetic procedures, and available treatment options before your consultation.
