Our Summary

This research paper discusses the use of fibrin tissue adhesives (a kind of medical glue) in facial plastic surgery. Fibrin tissue adhesives help to stop bleeding (hemostasis), stick tissues together (tissue adhesion), and improve wound healing. Using this type of glue can also reduce surgery time, the need for drains and pressure dressings, and the chance of complications during wound healing. This product can be used in different types of facial plastic surgeries, such as skin grafts, flaps, rhytidectomy (a type of facelift), and endoscopic forehead lift.

FAQs

  1. What are the benefits of using fibrin tissue adhesives in facial plastic surgery?
  2. In which types of facial plastic surgeries can fibrin tissue adhesives be used?
  3. How do fibrin tissue adhesives contribute to improved wound healing in facial plastic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about reconstructive surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include keeping the surgical site clean, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help support the body’s healing process after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from reconstructive surgery include those who have experienced trauma or injury to the face, such as burns, lacerations, or fractures. This type of surgery can also be recommended for individuals with congenital abnormalities or deformities, such as cleft lip and palate, craniofacial anomalies, or microtia (underdeveloped ear). Additionally, reconstructive surgery may be recommended for patients who have undergone surgical procedures for cancer removal, such as skin cancer or head and neck cancer, to restore function and appearance. Overall, reconstructive surgery can help improve a patient’s quality of life and self-esteem by addressing physical and functional impairments in the facial region.

Timeline

Before reconstructive surgery:

  1. Consultation: The patient meets with a plastic surgeon to discuss their desired outcomes, medical history, and any concerns they may have.
  2. Pre-operative preparation: The patient undergoes medical tests, evaluations, and possibly pre-surgical appointments to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  3. Surgery day: The patient arrives at the surgical facility, is prepped for surgery, and undergoes the reconstructive procedure.

After reconstructive surgery:

  1. Immediate recovery: The patient wakes up from anesthesia in the recovery room and is monitored by medical staff for any immediate complications.
  2. Post-operative care: The patient may stay in the hospital for a few days or be sent home with specific instructions for wound care, medication, and follow-up appointments.
  3. Healing process: The patient experiences swelling, bruising, and discomfort as their body heals from surgery. They may also require physical therapy or other treatments to aid in their recovery.
  4. Follow-up appointments: The patient regularly sees their plastic surgeon for check-ups to monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
  5. Final results: Over time, the patient’s surgical scars fade, and they begin to see the full benefits of their reconstructive surgery, such as improved function or appearance.

Overall, the patient’s experience with reconstructive surgery involves thorough pre-operative preparation, the surgical procedure itself, and a comprehensive post-operative recovery process to ensure the best possible outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of reconstructive surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period following reconstructive surgery?
  4. Will I need to undergo multiple surgeries or procedures to achieve the desired outcome?
  5. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to consider before proceeding with reconstructive surgery?
  6. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of function and appearance?
  7. How experienced are you in performing this type of reconstructive surgery?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  9. Will there be scarring following the surgery, and if so, how noticeable will it be?
  10. How soon after the surgery can I expect to see the final results?

Reference

Authors: Toriumi DM, Chung VK, Cappelle QM. Journal: Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2016 Jun;49(3):585-99. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2016.02.012. PMID: 27267012