Expert Oral Cavity Reconstruction Care
Oral cavity reconstruction is a specialized procedure that restores both form and function after cancer resection in the mouth. Our board-certified plastic surgeon specializes in advanced reconstruction techniques for defects of the tongue, cheeks, palate, and jaw, using both local tissue rearrangement and microvascular free tissue transfer to recreate functional oral structures.
We understand the profound impact oral cancer can have on speech, swallowing, and quality of life. Our comprehensive approach includes detailed consultation, personalized surgical planning using 3D technology, and coordinated care with your oncology team. Whether addressing tongue, floor of mouth, or jaw defects, we provide dedicated support throughout your recovery journey. Contact us to explore your reconstruction options.
Comprehensive Oral Reconstruction Approach
At our practice, we offer a full spectrum of oral reconstruction options tailored to each patient's unique defect, cancer treatment plan, and functional goals. Our approach focuses on restoring speech, swallowing, and oral competence 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
- Dental rehabilitation and implant placement
- Revision and refinement surgeries as needed
Reconstruction Techniques & Options
We offer various advanced techniques for oral reconstruction, each with specific benefits depending on your defect size, location, and functional requirements.
Local & Regional Flaps
- Buccal mucosal flaps
- Tongue flaps for palate reconstruction
- Nasolabial flaps for oral lining
- Palatal island flaps
- Facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap
Microvascular Reconstruction
- Radial forearm free flap (most common)
- Anterolateral thigh free flap
- Fibula free flap for jaw reconstruction
- Scapular/parascapular free flaps
- Jejunal free flap for circumferential defects
Timing & Treatment Considerations
Oral reconstruction timing is carefully coordinated with your cancer treatment plan to optimize both oncologic safety and functional outcomes.
Immediate Reconstruction
- Performed during same surgery as tumor excision
- Preserves tissue and function
- Reduces hospitalization time
- Single recovery period
- Psychological benefit of immediate restoration
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 Oral Reconstruction
Oral reconstruction offers significant functional and quality-of-life benefits, contributing to overall recovery after oral cancer.
Functional Benefits
- Restored swallowing and eating ability
- Improved speech and communication
- Maintained oral competence (prevent drooling)
- Jaw stability for chewing
- Airway protection during swallowing
Quality of Life Benefits
- Return to normal diet and nutrition
- Improved social interaction and confidence
- Reduced disability and dependence
- Enhanced overall quality of life
- Psychological well-being
Frequently asked questions
Understanding Oral 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 functional 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 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 optimal functional restoration. The radial forearm free flap is particularly valuable for tongue reconstruction due to its thin, pliable nature. We'll recommend the most appropriate technique for your specific situation.
Radiation significantly impacts oral 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 xerostomia (dry mouth) and trismus (limited jaw opening). We coordinate closely with your radiation oncologist to time reconstruction appropriately and choose techniques that optimize outcomes despite radiation effects.
Recovery varies based on procedure complexity. Local flap reconstruction typically involves 1-2 weeks of healing before beginning oral intake. Free flap reconstruction requires hospital stay of 7-14 days with close monitoring, followed by a period of restricted activity. Initially, nutrition is provided through a feeding tube while the reconstruction heals. Speech and swallowing therapy begins once healing permits. Most patients transition to oral diets over several weeks. Final functional outcomes continue to improve over 6-12 months as swelling resolves and patients adapt to their new anatomy. We provide comprehensive postoperative care including pain management, wound care, and rehabilitation support throughout your recovery.