Reconstruction surgery is becoming very popular in the United States. In particular, more than 12 million reconstructive procedures took place between 2019 and 2020. Surgeries to change how people look are very common. These procedures, however, come with risks.
If your plastic surgeon is board-certified and has years of experience and success in doing the procedure, that is great. Still, you may have some concerns about the surgery. Here are questions you should ask your plastic surgeon before getting your reconstructive surgery.
Can I Get Reconstruction Surgery?
The first step is to check whether you are a good candidate for reconstructive surgery. The goal of the surgery is to restore the look of the affected part of your body as accurately as possible. The surgeon will review your medical history and assess your case based on the issue you want to be corrected. He will also consider your desired outcomes and medical requirements.
For instance, if you have had a traumatic injury or cancer and need reconstructive surgery on several parts of your body, your surgeon will help you evaluate all the possible options. Then, the two of you will settle for the option that will be best for you.
When Can I Have Reconstruction Surgery?
If you have had surgeries or treatments because of cancer, you may wait up to a year to have reconstructive surgery. Your surgeon will check your health history and tell you when you can have reconstructive surgery.
What Are the Risks of Reconstruction Surgery?
As mentioned earlier, reconstructive surgeries do not come without risks. Risks associated with reconstructive procedures include bruising, infection, and surgery issues. They also include too much bleeding, sedation issues, and difficulty in wound recovery.
Will the Surgery Interfere With Radiotherapy or Chemotherapy?
It depends on your situation. Your surgeon can perform reconstructive surgery at different times, based on what works best for your case. As such, the reconstruction can be immediate or delayed depending on your specific situation and needs.
Will My Insurance Cover the Cost of the Surgery?
Unlike cosmetic procedures that are not done for medical reasons, most insurance policies cover the expenses of reconstructive surgeries. This is more so if your condition is causing functional issues. To be safe, have your surgeon take pictures and write a letter explaining your case.
Can I See Before-and-After Photos of Typical Outcomes?
Certainly, it is important to see your surgeon’s photos of typical outcomes to assess the work he has done before.
Other questions you may want to ask include how you should prepare for the surgery and how long the procedure will take. Likewise, you may want to know how long it will take you to recover from the surgery. Usually, it takes weeks for swelling to disappear; you can get back to your daily activities when you feel ready and with your surgeon’s approval.
To know more about reconstruction surgery, visit Texas Plastic Surgery at our office in San Antonio, Texas. You can also call 210-981-4490 to book an appointment today.
