Expert Facial Cancer Reconstruction Care
Facial reconstruction is a specialized component of cancer treatment that restores both form and function after tumor removal. Our board-certified plastic surgeon specializes in advanced facial reconstruction techniques, using both local tissue rearrangement and microvascular free tissue transfer to recreate natural facial contours and expressions.
We understand the profound impact facial cancer can have on identity and social interaction. Our compassionate approach includes detailed consultation, personalized surgical planning using 3D imaging technology, and coordinated care with your oncology team. Whether addressing skin cancer, oral cancer, or other facial malignancies, we provide comprehensive support throughout your recovery journey. Contact us to explore your reconstruction options.
Comprehensive Facial Reconstruction Approach
At our practice, we offer a full spectrum of facial reconstruction options tailored to each patient's unique defect, cancer treatment plan, and personal goals. Our approach focuses on restoring facial symmetry, function, and natural appearance while ensuring the best possible aesthetic outcome.
- Local flap reconstruction for smaller defects
- Regional flap reconstruction using nearby tissues
- Microvascular free tissue transfer for complex defects
- Facial nerve reconstruction and reanimation
- Revision and refinement surgeries as needed
Reconstruction Techniques & Options
We offer various advanced techniques for facial reconstruction, each with specific benefits depending on your defect size, location, and personal goals.
Local & Regional Flaps
- Rotation and advancement flaps
- Transposition flaps (e.g., nasolabial, forehead)
- Island pedicle flaps
- Check and neck flaps for facial defects
- Perforator flaps for tailored reconstruction
Microvascular Reconstruction
- Radial forearm free flap
- Anterolateral thigh free flap
- Fibula free flap for jaw reconstruction
- Scapular/parascapular free flaps
- Rectus abdominis free flap
Timing & Treatment Considerations
Facial reconstruction timing is carefully coordinated with your cancer treatment plan to optimize both oncologic safety and reconstructive outcomes.
Immediate Reconstruction
- Performed during same surgery as tumor excision
- Preserves native tissue and landmarks
- Psychological benefit of immediate restoration
- Single recovery period
- May facilitate radiation targeting if needed
Delayed Reconstruction
- Performed after completing cancer treatments
- Allows focus on cancer treatment first
- May be necessary with complex cases or radiation
- More time for detailed surgical planning
- Can address changes from radiation therapy
Benefits of Facial Reconstruction
Facial reconstruction offers significant functional and psychological benefits, contributing to overall recovery and quality of life after facial cancer.
Functional & Practical Benefits
- Restored oral competence and eating ability
- Improved speech and communication
- Eyelid protection and proper eye function
- Nasal breathing restoration
- Protection of vital structures
Psychological & Emotional Benefits
- Improved self-esteem and social confidence
- Reduced stigma associated with facial differences
- Sense of normalcy and wholeness
- Enhanced quality of life and social interaction
- Positive impact on mental health
Frequently asked questions
Understanding Facial Reconstruction
The timing depends on your specific cancer, treatment plan, and the complexity of reconstruction. Immediate reconstruction (during tumor resection) is often preferred as it preserves tissue, provides psychological benefits, and may yield better aesthetic results. However, delayed reconstruction (after completing cancer treatments) may be recommended for complex cases, when radiation is needed, or if there's uncertainty about clear margins. We'll help determine the optimal timing based on your cancer type, defect characteristics, and overall treatment plan.
Local flaps use tissue adjacent to the defect, offering excellent color and texture match with simpler surgery and faster recovery. They're ideal for small to moderate defects. Free flaps (microvascular reconstruction) transfer tissue from distant sites with their own blood supply, allowing reconstruction of large or complex defects when local tissue is insufficient. While free flaps require more complex surgery and longer recovery, they provide abundant tissue for three-dimensional reconstruction. The choice depends on defect size, location, patient factors, and surgical goals. We'll recommend the most appropriate technique for your specific situation.
Radiation significantly impacts facial reconstruction outcomes. It causes tissue fibrosis, reduces blood supply, and increases complication risks. For this reason, we often prefer to perform reconstruction before radiation when possible, or use well-vascularized flaps that can better tolerate radiation. If reconstruction occurs after radiation, we may need to excise radiated tissue and bring in healthy, non-irradiated tissue. Radiation can also cause long-term changes like contracture and pigment changes. We coordinate closely with your radiation oncologist to time reconstruction appropriately and choose techniques that optimize outcomes despite radiation effects.
Recovery varies significantly based on procedure complexity. Local flap reconstruction typically involves 1-2 weeks of swelling and bruising, with sutures removed in 5-7 days. Most patients return to light activities within 1-2 weeks. Free flap reconstruction requires hospital stay of 5-7 days with close monitoring, followed by 4-6 weeks of restricted activity. Initial swelling subsides over 2-3 weeks, but final results continue to refine over 6-12 months as scars mature and tissues settle. We provide detailed postoperative instructions, wound care guidance, and close follow-up. For complex cases, occupational therapy may be needed to restore function. We're with you throughout the entire recovery process.