Reconstructive Surgery: Reconstruction of Function and Aesthetics
Reconstructive surgery is a broad medical discipline that aims to treat tissue loss and deformities caused by congenital anomalies, accidents, trauma, or diseases such as cancer. The core philosophy of this surgical field is not only to provide the patient with an aesthetic appearance but also to restore vital functions while preserving body integrity. Thanks to modern medical technologies, tissue losses can now be repaired in their most natural form by transferring tissue from one part of the body to another using microsurgical methods.In reconstruction processes that require special surgical planning for each patient, establishing a balance between functionality and natural aesthetic appearance is the primary priority. These interventions do not just provide physical recovery; they also significantly increase quality of life by strengthening the patient's self-confidence and adaptation to social life.
Breast Reconstruction
Mastectomy (breast tissue removal) operations performed within the scope of breast cancer treatment can be a source of both physical loss and psychological trauma for women. Breast reconstruction surgery provides the restructuring of this lost tissue using surgical methods. These operations can be performed in the same session as cancer surgery, or they can be planned in the late period after chemotherapy or radiotherapy processes are completed.
Autologous reconstructions using the patient's own tissues (abdominal, back, or hip region flaps) or modern silicone prosthetic systems can be preferred during the repair process. The main goal is to reconstruct body symmetry, eliminate restrictions in clothing choice, and ensure the patient feels physically whole. Surgical techniques in this field also include the aesthetic reconstruction of the nipple and surrounding area (areola).
Post-Cancer Repair and Head and Neck Surgery
The surgical removal of cancerous tissues sometimes leads to wide gaps in vital tissues, bone losses, or serious structural damage. Preserving critical functions such as speaking, chewing, swallowing, and breathing is one of the greatest surgical challenges, especially after the removal of tumors in the head and neck region.
In repairs performed after head and neck surgery, facial aesthetics and functional integrity are preserved using tissues transferred from different parts of the body (such as leg bone, arm, or abdominal tissue) with microsurgical methods. These complex repairs are of critical importance for the patient to continue vital activities and to take part in society without aesthetic anxiety.
Hand Surgery and Microsurgery Applications
The hand is one of the most complex anatomical structures of the human body, an organ where vessels, nerves, tendons, and bones work in a millimetric order. Hand surgery covers the repair of nerve entrapments (carpal tunnel syndrome), tendon ruptures, congenital anomalies, and severe injuries resulting from occupational accidents. Restoring delicate mobility requires surgical meticulousness and advanced technical skill.
Microsurgery is a high-level technology performed under a microscope that allows the repair of millimetric vessels and nerves, which are impossible to see with the naked eye, with special tools. Thanks to this method, replantation of severed fingers or limbs and free tissue transfers are successfully performed. Microsurgery has expanded the limits of reconstructive surgery, making many treatments that were previously seen as impossible possible.
Burn, Wound, and Chronic Wound Treatment
Serious burns and chronic wounds that do not heal for a long time (diabetic foot wounds, pressure sores, or wounds due to circulatory disorders) are a painful and risky process for the patient. Post-burn skin contractions (contractures) can prevent the patient's mobility by restricting joint movements. Reconstructive surgery uses methods such as graft (tissue patch) and flap surgery to eliminate these restrictions and restore skin integrity.
In the treatment of chronic wounds, the goal is to clean the wound bed, control the infection, and close the area with healthy tissue. By using advanced dressing techniques and surgical restoration processes together, limb losses are prevented and permanent scars are minimized.
Holistic Approach and Functional Goals
The ultimate goal in reconstructive surgery is not just to close the damaged area anatomically, but to make that area as functional and natural as possible. While planning the operation, the patient's general health status, lifestyle, and expectations are evaluated comprehensively. Functional restoration and aesthetic harmony are carried out together at every stage of surgery.
A successful reconstructive surgery process allows the patient to adapt quickly to social and professional life. Modern surgical approaches aim to restore lost body integrity and functional abilities while minimizing tissue rejection risks.
