Our Summary

This summary is about a major event in the field of plastic surgery. The Fudan Zhongshan Plastic Surgery Forum, in partnership with the National Continuing Education Course, is a respected event that is backed by the Shanghai Medical Association for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Fudan University. This year, the conference and course took place at Zhongshan Hospital, which is connected to Fudan University, and was held in Shanghai, China, on August 26-27, 2023. The main focus of this year’s event was on the latest advancements and innovative techniques in plastic surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the Fudan Zhongshan Plastic Surgery Forum?
  2. Who authorizes and supports the National Continuing Education Course for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery?
  3. What was the focus of the annual conference held on August 26-27, 2023 at Zhongshan Hospital?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about reconstructive surgery is to carefully follow all post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. This may include proper wound care, medication management, and follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome of your surgery. It is important to communicate any concerns or complications with your surgeon promptly.

Suitable For

Reconstructive surgery is typically recommended for patients who have experienced trauma, injury, congenital deformities, or have undergone surgery for cancer or other medical conditions. This includes patients seeking breast reconstruction after mastectomy, individuals with facial deformities or scarring from accidents, and those in need of limb reconstruction or hand surgery. Reconstructive surgery can help improve function, restore appearance, and enhance quality of life for these patients.

Timeline

Before reconstructive surgery:

  1. Patient meets with a plastic surgeon to discuss their medical history, desired outcome, and options for surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes a physical examination and may need to complete pre-operative tests such as blood work.
  3. The surgeon develops a personalized surgical plan for the patient, including the type of procedure, expected outcomes, and potential risks.
  4. The patient may need to make lifestyle changes or stop taking certain medications in preparation for surgery.

After reconstructive surgery:

  1. The patient is monitored closely in the recovery room immediately following surgery.
  2. The patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days or go home the same day, depending on the procedure.
  3. The surgeon provides post-operative care instructions, including wound care, medications, and follow-up appointments.
  4. The patient may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days and weeks following surgery.
  5. Over time, the surgical site heals, and the patient can see the final results of the reconstructive surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with reconstructive surgery?

  2. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during this time?

  3. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and are there any potential side effects?

  4. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery and what realistic expectations should I have?

  5. How many reconstructive surgeries of this type have you performed and what is your success rate?

  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered instead of surgery?

  7. How will the surgery affect my daily life, such as work, physical activity, and overall lifestyle?

  8. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments or treatments after the surgery?

  9. What type of scarring can I expect and are there any ways to minimize or improve the appearance of scars?

  10. How much will the surgery cost and will it be covered by insurance?

Reference

Authors: Qi F, Pan Y. Journal: Ann Plast Surg. 2024 Apr 1;92(4):374-375. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000003818. PMID: 38527339